Conservation Tips

Check toilets for leaks. Use a "leak detector" tablet or food coloring in your tank. If later, without flushing, dye appears in the bowl, you need a new flapper.
Check faucets and pipes for leaks. The smallest drip can waste up to 20 gallons or more per day.

Run only full loads in your dishwasher and washing machine.
When selecting appliances, choose energy and water efficient models.
When hand washing dishes, don't leave the water running for rinsing. If you have two sinks, fill one with soapy water for washing and one with rinse water. If not, gather washed dishes in a dish rack and rinse them with a spray device.
For food preparation, rinse food in a stopped sink instead of under a steady stream of water.
Keep a bottle of drinking water in the refrigerator and avoid running the tap until the water is cold.

Don't use the toilet as a trash can. Each flush wastes up to 5 gallons of water.
Install water saving shower heads or flow restrictors.
Shorten showers to reduce water usage.
Turn off water while brushing your teeth or shaving.

Water your lawn and plants in the early morning or evening hours to prevent evaporation.
Plan for deeper soaking waterings rather than frequent sprinklings.
Set your lawn mower one notch higher to limit water evaporation.
When using a hose, control the flow with an automatic shut off nozzle.
Check sprinkler heads and valves for leaks.
Mulch around plants and shrubs to save moisture.
Grow drought tolerant plants in your garden.
Cover pools with pool covers to cut evaporation by 90%.
Use a broom instead of a hose to clean sidewalks and driveways.
Use a bucket and a hose with a shut-off valve to wash vehicles.
Prevent leaks by disconnecting hoses and shutting off outdoor water during cold weather.
Capture rainwater from downspouts with rain barrels for use in your yard. A lid, mesh fabric or several drops of baby oil on the surface will prevent mosquitoes from breeding.