Whether you’re a renter or a homeowner, water conservation is good for you, the community and our future – and the changes you make to support water conservation don’t need to be drastic or difficult. Read on to find out all the different ways you can implement a few small changes that will contribute to a big impact!
In the Bathroom
Don’t flush small trash.
Disposing of items like cigarette butts, facial tissue, and other small trash wastes gallons of water. Put them in the garbage (or recycle if appropriate).
Upgrade your toilet – install an adjustable toilet flapper on your existing toilet, or replace it with a low or dual flush model.
These advancements have made it possible to have your flush only use the minimum amount of water needed to clear the bowl, ultimately using up to 70% less water than older models!
Shower more efficiently.
There’s no doubt about how good a long shower feels, but each unneeded minute can result in 5 to 10 gallons of wasted water! Low-flow showerheads are inexpensive, easy to install, and many include an option to pause the flow when it’s not needed (such as when you’re soaping yourself) and turn it back on when you’re ready to rinse.
Turn off the water when brushing your teeth.
Once the toothbrush is wet, there’s no need to leave the water running between when you start and when you rinse.
In the Kitchen
Install an aerator on the sink.
This effective water saving measure is also easy and cheap…what more can you ask for? The water pressure remains the same, but the device can save up to 1 gallon per minute.
Got a dishwasher? Use it!
Modern models use water more efficiently – according to the EPA, by up to half what a standard sink wash would use, potentially saving up to 5,000 gallons per year! Only use when you have a full load to wash, and check your machine’s manual…you might be able to skip the pre-rinse and just give the dishes a good scrape before loading them.
Wash fruits and veggies in standing water instead of the stream.
A large bowl, pot, or the stoppered sink will work just as well.
In the Yard
Water as early as possible.
This will minimize evaporation and, over time, lessen the need for watering in general.
Check the time and the aim. Automatic sprinklers should have a rain sensor to detect if they need to come on, be put on a timer, and checked to make sure they’re aimed in areas that actually have plants requiring water. A landscaping or sprinkler company may have other suggestions to improve the efficiency of your irrigation system.
Know what to put on and in the ground.
Mulching in flower beds and around trees not only looks nice, but it will help retain moisture once applied. Look into native and drought-resistant plants that require less water in general and still thrive!
Get a rain barrel.
We all know how much rain Florida gets! Harness that water and use it later.
Not only will you be able to avoid running water until absolutely necessary, you’ll help prevent runoff of chemicals and pesticides that will end up down storm drains and contaminating waterways.
Around the House
Check for leaks.
Leaky faucets, toilets, even underground pipes can all raise your water bill and waste thousands of gallons of water per year. Keeping up with repairs will save you money, prevent worse damage to your home, and stop a precious resource from going to waste.