Water Conservation
Tips for conserving home water usage

Whether you receive your home water from a municipal water supply system or your own well, it is in everyone’s interest to conserve water. With a few simple steps, you can save hundreds of gallons of water each week. In addition to any specific restrictions from state or local authorities, here are some Do’s and Don’ts.

Inside, Outside & Everywhere

• Bathrooms account for nearly 75% of water usage in the average home. Taking shorter showers can save up to 7 gallons a minute.

• Fill the bathtub just halfway and save up to 15 gallons.

• Dispose of tissues, dental floss and similar items in the trash and don’t use the toilet as a wastebasket.

• Do not let the water run when washing your face, shaving or brushing teeth.

• If you don’t have a low-flow toilet, place a brick in the tank to reduce water use.

• Install reduced-flow aerators on all faucets and showerheads.

• Insulate water pipes to reduce the time to get hot water running from the tap.

• Run the dishwasher and washing machine only when fully loaded and use the short-cycle when possible.

• When washing dishes by hand, don’t let the water run. Fill a basin of water for washing and then rinse.

• Keep a container of water in the refrigerator so you don’t have to run the water to make it cold.

• Don’t hose off your sidewalk, driveway or patio — sweep them clean.

• When washing your car, put soap and water in a bucket and use the hose only to rinse off.

• Don’t over-water your lawn. Only water every third day and do it before 9:00 am.

• Closely cut grass makes the roots work harder and draw more water. Don’t mow below 3 inches.

• Using a layer of mulch around plants reduces evaporation and the need to water them as frequently.

• Repair all leaky faucets and always turn taps off tightly. A drip of just one drop of water per second wastes 2,700 gallons over the course of a year.

Note: These tips are designed to help you assess the safety and maintenance of your home and property, and to offer some precautions. Application of any or all of these suggestions may not prevent damage or protect you, or your property from harm. Your knowledge of the situation, use of your common sense and compliance with local and state codes should direct your course of action. These recommendations may or may not have any relationship to your insurance coverage.