Tips & Tricks for Efficient Water Use

Indoors

• When washing dishes by hand, avoid letting the water run while rinsing. If you have two sinks, try filling one with wash water and the other with rinse water. For only one sink, try using a spary device or just short bursts of water. Save 200-500 gallons per month.
• Try to run your dishwasher and washing machine only when they are full. Save 300-800 gallons per month.
• Use the garbage disposal sparingly, try composting instead. Save 50-150 gallons per month.
• Instead of running the tap for cold drinks, keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator. Save 200-300 gallons per month.
• When it's time to replace a toilet, showerhead or appliance, consider buying energy efficient or low-flow. Save 500-800 gallons per month.
• To save 4 gallons per minute, remember to turn off the the water while you brush your teeth and wash your face.
• While you wait for hot water to come down the pipes, catch the cold wter in a watering can to use later on house plants or in your garden. Save 200-300 gallons per month.

Outdoors

• Minimize evaporation by watering in the early morning hours. Save 300 gallons each time you water.
• Avoid overwatering your lawn by using this trick: If you walk across your lawn and leave footprints, it's time to water; if there are no footprints, save the sprinklers for another day. Save 750-1,500 gallons per month.
• Adjust your lawnmower to a higher setting. Longer grass shades the root systems and holds soil moisture better thatn closely-cut grass. Save 500-1,500 gallons per month.
• Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your driveway and sidewalks. Save 600 gallons per month.

For more information, visit the California Landscape Contractors Association Website.

Xeriscaping in Northern California

Xeriscaping refers to utilizing native and drought tolerant plants in your landscape to reduce outdoor water consumption. Since native plants are accustomed to our local soil, climate and pests, this method of landscaping not only conserves water, but also limits the need for pest control and fertilizer applications. Once established, many native plants require little to no supplemental watering.

For more information on plants native to California, visit the California Native Plant Society. If looking for native plant suppliers, check with local nurseries or visit the Rugged Country Plants website, a plant supply company out of Oregon that specializes in vegitation from our region.

Checking for Leaks

To check for hidden water leaks, read the water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter is not exactly the same, there is a leak.
Try checking your toilet for leaks by putting a little food coloring in the tank. If color appears in the bowl without flushing, there is a leak. Having it repaired saves 400 gallons per month.
Leaky faucets should be fixed quickly; it will save 20 gallons per day!