Green Tips
INDOORS • run the dishwasher only when completely full; soak dishes and pans rather than running water while scraping; no need to rinse if dishwasher is new (they clean more thoroughly than older models) • use no more than one glass per day which will cut down on dishwasher loads • store drinking water in the refrigerator to avoid running water until it’s cold enough • install an instant hot water dispenser at the kitchen sink to avoid running water until it’s hot enough • when defrosting food, avoid using running water; use the refrigerator or microwave • when washing hands, turn the water off while you lather up • shorter showers! 5 minutes or less • when taking a bath, plug the drain before turning the water on and adjust temperature as tub fills up • install a water conservation shower head • have all running toilets repaired; make sure flappers are not stuck in the open position after flushing • consider replacing older model toilets with water efficient toilets • drop tissue in the trash to avoid unnecessary flushing • run laundry only when there are full loads to run; avoid running smaller loads • install low-flow aerators on all sink faucets • water plants thoroughly but less frequently
OUTDOORS • check sprinkler system frequently and adjust so only the landscape is watered (not the house, sidewalk or street); check sprinkler valves for leaks and keep the heads in good condition • water during morning hours when temperature is cooler to avoid evaporation and allow for better absorption; avoid watering on windy days; only water when necessary • use sprinkler system only on larger areas; water small patches by hand; set a timer when using a sprinkler system or when watering a lawn or garden by hand • install a water-efficient drip irrigation system for trees, shrubs and flowers; be careful not to overwater • put down a layer of mulch to slow absorption and discourage weed growth; weed regularly; weeds compete with plants for water, nutrients and light • bathe your pet or let the kids run under the sprinkler on the lawn or another area in need of water • when washing a car, install a hose nozzle on the
hose and turn off the water while lathering up • check all outdoor faucets, pipes and hoses for leaks; a leak check should be conducted twice a year • sweep the sidewalk and driveway rather than hosing them down• cover up pools and spas to reduce evaporation
GENERAL MAINTENANCE • read the water meter before and after a two hour period of no water
being used; there is a leak somewhere if the meter does not read exactly the same way before and after• install a rain shut-off device on automatic sprinklers to eliminate unneccessary watering • winterizeoutdoor spigots, in the event of the temperature dipping below 20 degrees, to prevent pipes from freezingor bursting; know where the master shut-off valve is located • insulate hot water pipes • check watermeter and bill to track usage