The average household uses approximately 260 gallons of water per day. A significant amount of that use occurs in the kitchen and bathroom. Lengthy showers, older appliances and fixtures, and overuse of the water tap are just a few of the water wasting activities that occur in these areas of the home.
By implementing simple and easy water-saving measures (listed below), we can achieve the goal of using less water, yet still accomplish the same task.
Helpful suggestions for water efficiency and savings measures:
• Install low flow showerheads and low flow faucet aerators
• Take shorter showers / turn off the water while soaping up
• Turn off the water while brushing your teeth and/or shaving
• Don't use the toilet as a waste basket
• Use your dishwasher and clothes washer for only full loads
• Minimize use of garbage disposal - scrape table scraps into garbage can
• Wash fruits and veggies in a bowl of warm water rather than letting water run
• Reuse the water from steamed vegetables and/or melted ice cubes to water outdoor plants
• Store a bottle of drinking water in the fridge
• Replace older (less efficient) appliances with new water sense labeled products (contact the City for rebate opportunities)
• Schedule a water survey with City staff to determine recommended water use for your household
The suggestions listed above are just a few easy, yet effective methods for saving water at home. Even small measures can make a big impact.
Using water efficiently will help ensure reliable water supplies today and for future generations. Please do your part to be a wiser water user. And parents, be sure to get children and family members involved. If we all work together, we can make a difference.
For more information on water conservation ideas, visit the City of Turlock's website at www.cityofturlock.org/gogreen and click on the "water conservation" tab on the right panel, or call the Municipal Services Department at 668-5590.
- Brought to you by the City of Turlock Municipal Services Department
Water Conservation Tip #20
WATER IN CYCLES
For the healthiest and most water-efficient lawn, try to water in several short watering cycles rather than one long one. Three 5 to 10 minute sessions spaced 30 minutes to an hour apart will allow your lawn to better absorb moisture than one straight longer session, and there is less water run-off.
