Water is at a premium in a number of states, and water conservation is an important part of protecting the health of our planet no matter where we are. Conserving water also helps cut down on your utility bills, whether you receive city water service or use electricity to run a well pump.
- Choose your own water glass, or use a water bottle. Refill it throughout the day instead of getting a new glass each time. You’ll save water and cut down on the dishes you have to wash.
- If you drop ice cubes, put them in a house plant or a pet’s water dish instead of tossing them in the sink. Plants and pets need extra water in summer as well, so they’ll thank you.
- Share water from fish tanks with non-edible plants instead of pouring it out. Your ornamental plants and shrubs will love the nutrient-rich water left behind by the fish.
- Keep a pitcher of drinking water in the refrigerator. You’ll have refreshing cold water whenever you want it, without having to wait for the tap.
- When doing laundry, match the water level to the size of the load. Washing clothes in cold water also saves energy and helps dark colors and brights maintain their color.
- Don’t stop playing in the sprinkler…but when it’s time to cool off, set up the sprinkler on the parts of the lawn that need watering the most. Or set the sprinkler near the edge of flower or vegetable beds so the plants can enjoy the water too.
- Don’t overfill pools. Just an inch or two of space at the top can help keep water in the pool, instead of sending it over the side with splashing.
- Use a pool cover when the pool is not in use. Pool covers reduce evaporation, keep dirt and debris out of the water, and help protect kids or pets that might wander too close to the water.
- Use a hose nozzle to wash cars and pets. You’ll save water and get better control for a deep clean.
- Use a broom to clean patios and sidewalks instead of a hose. You’ll save water every time.