Saving Water and Money

Bathroom

• Reduce amount of water per flush by putting a tall plastic container into each tank or purchase a toilet dam.
• In new homes install water-saving toilets that do not use no more than 1.6 gallons (6 liters) per flush.
• Flush toilets only when necessary.
• Take short showers as an alternative of baths. Turn off water while soaping up and then rinse off.
• Mount on water-saving showerheads and flow resistors on all facets.
• Check regularly for water leaks and repair them without delay.
• Do not keep water running while brushing teeth, shaving or cleaning.

• Purchase the most energy efficient air conditioning system and appraise by lifetime cost.
• Do not cool unused rooms.
• Use small fans to cool an area rather than less efficient cooling systems.
• Close the window blinds and drapes on sunny days and open them on cooler days.
• Close bathroom door to prevent heat and humid air from reaching other areas of the home.
• Use energy efficient fluorescent lights over regular incandescent bulbs.

• Build a super insulated house.
• Do not heat unused rooms, such as the closet.
• Get as much space heat from the sun as possible.

• Wash only full loads using the short cycle.  Use a natural gas powered dryer, which will save more than electricity driven ones.
• Let the sun dry your clothes. It's cleaner for the environment and saves you money.
• When purchasing a new washer, keep in mind that front-loading clothes washers use less water and energy than top-loading versions.
• Again check for leaks and repair them without delay.

• When using an automatic dishwasher, wash only for full loads. Use the short cycle and let the dishes dry themselves to save energy and money.
• While washing dishes by hand do not let water run.  As a substitute, use a wash container and a rinse container.
• Store a reusable drinking water container in the refrigerator rather than waiting for facet water to get cold to drink.
• Do not use the garbage disposable since it uses a great amount of water. Instead compose your food properly.
• Again check for leaks and repair them without delay.

• Wash your vehicle less frequently.  Use a bucket to soap up and after rinse off with hose.
• Goto commercial car washes that recycle its water.
• Use a broom and sweep off driveways and sidewalks rather than hosing them off.
• Improve irrigation by watering only to areas, which are necessary.
• Capture water when rain falls and use it later to water your plants.

• Walk or ride a bicycle for short trips.
• Take advantage of carpools or vanpools as much as possible.
• Use the bus, train, or other means of mass-public transportation for long trips.
• Drive a car that uses at least 35 miles per gallon.
• Combine trips to get things done.
• Get car engine tuned periodically, including changing air filter regularly. Keep tire pressures at recommended level.
• Obey speed limits.