BLOG: Water Conservation Tips for Home and Garden
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With droughts and water shortages becoming more common, it's important for all of us to use water wisely.
Here are some of the top recommendations:
In the Home
Take shorter showers - Cutting your shower time by just a few minutes can save thousands of gallons of water per year.
Install low-flow fixtures - Replacing old, inefficient faucets, showerheads and toilets with water-saving models is one of the best ways to cut indoor water use. Look for EPA WaterSense labelled products.
Fix leaks - A small leak from a worn washer can waste hundreds of gallons each month. Check faucets and pipes for leaks regularly and repair any you find right away.
Run full loads - Only run the washing machine and dishwasher when you have a full load. This maximizes the amount of water used per cycle.
Turn off the tap - When brushing your teeth or washing dishes, don't let the water run. Turn it on only to rinse.
In the Garden
Water early - Water plants in the early morning or evening when evaporation is lowest to minimize water loss.
Use mulch - A layer of mulch over bare soil prevents evaporation and reduces the need for watering. Organic mulch also improves the soil.
Choose native plants - Native and drought tolerant plants are adapted to your local climate and require less water once established.
Install drip irrigation - Drip systems deliver water directly to plant roots where it's needed. They waste far less water than sprinklers.
Water deeply - Long, infrequent watering encourages deep root growth for healthier plants that can access soil moisture better.
Collect rainwater - Rain barrels or cisterns capture rainwater runoff from your roof to use for watering gardens and lawns.
Implementing some of these easy tips at home can significantly cut your water consumption while maintaining a beautiful landscape. We all need to do our part to use our precious water supplies wisely.
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