Check faucets and toilets for leaks [To check a toilet, place enough food coloring in the upper tank to change the color of the water. Do Not Flush! Come back in 10 to 15 minutes if any coloring is in the bowl portion of the tank you have a leak. Usually the flapper valve needs replacing. Note: a leaking toilet can double or triple a water bill.
Take shorter showers and shallow baths.
Turn off the water after you wet your toothbrush.
Stop using the toilet as a wastebasket.
Install water-saving shower heads or flow restrictors.
Water your lawn only when it needs it and only during cool parts of the day. To help prevent the growth of fungus, water in the morning rather than at dusk. Water slowly and deep soak to get moisture to the roots where it does the most good.
Plant drought resistant trees and plants and mulch around trees and plants to retain moisture.
Use a broom, not a hose to clean driveways and sidewalks.
Wash your car with a bucket of water. Use the hose only to rinse.
Check for leaks in hoses.
Use your automatic dishwasher for full loads only and scrap dishes clean to limit pre-rinse.
Use your washing machine for full loads only.
Keep a bottle of drinking water in the refrigerator instead of leaving water run to get it cold or add ice.
If you wash dishes by hand do not leave the water running. Soak really dirty pans or dishes to speed washing.
Check pipes for leaks.
Cover pools and spas to reduce evaporation. Avoid overflows and splashes by reducing water levels.
If purchasing a new dishwasher or washing machine choose wisely. Find one that conserves water and has suds saver attachments. Look for the ENERGY STAR.
