Saturday, July 16, 2011

save water-------------------------

  • When washing dishes by hand, don't let the water run while rinsing. Fill one sink with wash water and the other with rinse water.
  • #3
    Some refrigerators, air conditioners and ice-makers are cooled with wasted flows of water. Consider upgrading with air-cooled appliances for significant water savings.
  • #4
    Adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered and not the house, sidewalk, or street.
  • #5
    Run your clothes washer and dishwasher only when they are full. You can save up to 1,000 gallons a month.
  • #6
    Choose shrubs and groundcovers instead of turf for hard-to-water areas such as steep slopes and isolated strips.
  • #7
    Install covers on pools and spas and check for leaks around your pumps.
  • #8
    Use the garbage disposal sparingly. Compost vegetable food waste instead and save gallons every time.
  • #9
    Plant in the fall when conditions are cooler and rainfall is more plentiful.
    • Monitor your water bill for unusually high use. Your bill and water meter are tools that can help you discover leaks.
    • #12
      Water your lawn and garden in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler to minimize evaporation.
    • #13
      Wash your fruits and vegetables in a pan of water instead of running water from the tap.
    • #14
      Spreading a layer of organic mulch around plants retains moisture and saves water, time and money.
    • #15
      Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your driveway and sidewalk and save water every time.
    • #16
      If your shower fills a one-gallon bucket in less than 20 seconds, replace the showerhead with a water-efficient model.
    • #17
      Collect the water you use for rinsing fruits and vegetables, then reuse it to water houseplants.
    • #18
      If water runs off your lawn easily, split your watering time into shorter periods to allow for better absorption.
    • #19
      We're more likely to notice leaks indoors, but don't forget to check outdoor faucets, sprinklers and hoses for leaks.
    • #20
      If you have an automatic refilling device, check your pool periodically for leaks.
    • #21
      Check the root zone of your lawn or garden for moisture before watering using a spade or trowel. If it's still moist two inches under the soil surface, you still have enough water.
    • #22
      When buying new appliances, consider those that offer cycle and load size adjustments. They're more water and energy efficient.
    • #23
      Shorten your shower by a minute or two and you'll save up to 150 gallons per month.
    • #24
      Upgrade older toilets with water efficient models.
    • #25
      Adjust your lawn mower to a higher setting. A taller lawn shades roots and holds soil moisture better than if it is closely clipped.
    • #26
      When cleaning out fish tanks, give the nutrient-rich water to your plants.
    • #27
      Use sprinklers for large areas of grass. Water small patches by hand to avoid waste.