How To Be Water-Smart and Save

Water is life’s most precious resource and it is one of our most affordable commodities. Although water is plentiful in our area, being water-smart will ensure reliable water supplies for future generations.

The EPA reports that of the estimated 29 billion gallons of water used daily by households in the United States, nearly nine billion gallons, or 30 percent, is devoted to outdoor water use. In the hot summer months, or in dry climates, a household's outdoor water use can be as high as 70 percent.

Here are a few simple steps that can add up to big water savingsoutdoors:

  1. Plant a water-smart landscape by grouping plants according to their water needs. Grouping vegetation with similar watering needs into specific water zones reduces water use and protects the plants from both underwatering and overwatering.
  2. Water lawns in the early morning or evening when temperatures and wind speed are at their lowest. This helps reduce evaporation and waste.
  3. To help your grass grow deeper roots and hold in moisture, in turn requiring less water, raise your lawn mower blade to at least three inches or to its highest setting.
  4. Sweep driveways, sidewalks, and steps rather than hosing them off.
  5. Wash the car with water from a bucket, or consider using a commercial car wash that recycles water.
  6. If you have an inground sprinkler system, upgrade to a Water Sense labeled controller. It’s also a good idea to hire a professional to ensure your system is not only working properly, but also watering at peak efficiency.

Looking for more ways to save? Use theseadditional outdoor water-smart tips for your home.

It’s easy to take water for granted, especially indoors. According to the EPA, the average household could save about $170 per year by retrofitting with water efficient fixtures and incorporating water-saving practices.

Here are tips to save water indoors and get more from less:

  1. Check for leaks around the house. The average household's leaks can account for more than 10,000 gallons of water wasted every year. Bathroom and kitchen faucets, as well as toilets, can all spring leaks. Learn how to find and fix leaksby following these easy steps.
  2. Turn off the water while brushing your teeth or shaving.
  3. Showers use less water than baths, as long as you keep an eye on how long you’ve been lathering up!
  4. Instead of pouring water down the drain, use it to water indoor plants.
  5. Retrofit household faucets by installing aerators with flow restrictions.
  6. Wash clothes or dishes only when you have a full load or set the water level for the size of the load.

Learn more about saving water and money with these helpful tips and tools.

*Source: Water Sense, an EPA Partnership Program