Tips for Using Water Efficiently

Ideas and Tips for Home and Commercial Businesses to Save Water

Equipment:

• Install ultra-low flow toilets, or adjust flush valves or install dams on existing toilets.
• Install faucet aerators and high efficiency showerheads.
• Use water-conserving ice makers.
• As appliances and equipment wear out, replace them with water-saving models.
• Eliminate "once-through" cooling of equipment with municipal water by recycling water flow to cooling tower or replacing with air-cooled equipment.

Practices:

• Detect and repair all leaks.
• Minimize the water used in cooling equipment in accordance with manufacturers recommendations. Shut off cooling units when not needed.

Kitchens and Laundries:

• Turn off dishwashers when not in use. Wash full loads only.
• Scrape rather than rinse dishes before washing.
• Use water from steam tables to wash down cooking areas.
• Do not use running water to melt ice or frozen foods.
• Handle waste materials in a dry state whenever possible.
• Wash only full loads of laundry or select the appropriate washing cycle provided on the washing machine. Use a rinse water recycle system. Consider purchasing high efficiency equipment.

Outside:

• Wash vehicles less often; use a commercial car wash that recycles water.
• If you have a swimming pool, consider a new water-saving pool filter.
• Lower pool water level to reduce amount of water splashed out.
• Use pool filter backwash for landscape irrigation.
• Use a pool cover to reduce evaporation when pool is not being used.
• Sweep or blow paved areas to clean, rather than hosing off.

Source: EPA