Water Conservation at Home

It has been said recently that the water crisis will be quickly following global warming as the next major human induced environmental crisis. We need to make an effort to make changes and learn to conserve water now if we hope to manage the negative effects of years and years of misuse.

We never know the worth of water till the well is dry.

-Thomas Fuller

1. Make sure all faucets in your home are leak free.
2. Install low-flow toilets throughout your home.
3. Take shorter showers.
4. Turn off the water while brushing your teeth and teach your kids to do the same.
5. Consider washing your car on your lawn - double duty – get the car clean and water the lawn at the same time.
6. Install landscaping that does not require lots of water (xeriscape).
7. Remove your lawn and install a natural landscape.
8. Don't pre-wash your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher.
9. Only run the dishwasher when it is full.
10. Only run the washing machine when you have a full load.
11. Harvest rainwater and install a rain water storage container. Use the rainwater in your garden.
12. Investigate installing a gray water system.
13. Do not use the hose to wash off your driveway or deck - sweep instead!
14. Think twice before using a pressure washer.
15. Consider self-watering devices for house plants and outdoor potted plants to prevent over watering or drying out.
16. Don't pour water down the drain if you can find another use for it!
17. Don't flush the toilet unnecessarily.
18. Insulate your water pipes. You'll get hot water faster plus avoid wasting water while it heats up.

Take the time to make changes and conserve water at home (and everywhere you go). Living an all-around greener lifestyle and reducing your water footprint as well as your carbon footprint will be healthier for you, your family and the planet.