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Water Conservation
Every Drop Counts - Water Saving Tips at Home
Did you know that we use about 77 gallons of water each day per person? A few simple changes can make a big difference.
Did you know that we use about 77 gallons of water each day per person? A few simple changes can make a big difference.
- Repair leaks - Dripping faucets and leaky toilets can waste over 2,000 gallons of water each year.
- Replace old shower heads - Low flow shower heads can save 3 gallons per minute.
- Run full loads - Running laundry machines and dishwashers when full instead of multiple smaller loads.
- Consider water efficiency - When purchasing new laundry machines or dishwashers, consider water efficient models. They use up to 40% less water per year.
- Turn off water - When brushing your teeth or shaving, turn the water off in the sink.
- Timing is everything - Water your lawn between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m., not during peak hours.
- Avoid over watering - According to Michigan State University, turf grass should only be watered 1 to 1.5 inches per week. Approximately 5 minutes of watering is recommended for mist head sprinkler systems, and 8 to 10 minutes for rotary head systems.
- Check your sprinkler heads - Have your lawn care provider perform an inventory on all sprinkler heads. Are they all working properly? Are any heads broken?
- Improve your aim - Adjust your sprinkler heads to water only your plants and lawn - not your driveway, sidewalk, or street.
- Mow high - Make your lawn cheaper and easier to maintain by mowing high; 3 inches is recommended. Longer grass has deeper roots and requires less water.
- Put rainwater to work - Collect rain water in a rain barrel and use it to water your plants.
- Sweep it - Use a broom, rather than a hose to clean sidewalks, decks, and driveways. You’ll save water and keep unwanted pollutants out of storm drains.
- Use mulch - Place a thick layer of mulch around trees and plants. This helps retain water, reduce weeds, and minimize the need for pesticides.
- Cover pools and hot tubs - An average uncovered pool loses about an inch of water a week due to evaporation. Fill pools and hot tubs during the night hours or slowly over a few days.