How to Use Less Water

You probably already know the importance of conserving water both for the well being of future generations as well as to save money on your water bills. By making simple changes in the way you use water on a daily basis, you can help contribute to the well being of the environment as well as watch your water bill drop. Here's how to use less water.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Turn off the water when you brush your teeth.
   
   You can save a surprising amount of water simply by turning off the faucet when you brush your teeth. Only after you've completed brushing and are ready to rinse should the water be turned back on.
2. Store drinking water in the refrigerator.
   
   Instead of running to the tap every time you want a drink of water, store a jug of cold water in the refrigerator.
3. Operate washer, dryers, and dishwashers judiciously.
   
   Before you turn on your washer ,dryer, or dishwasher, make sure it's completely full. Don't run these appliances unnecessarily. This is an easy way to use less water and reduce your water bill.
4. Install a low-flow shower head.
   
   Installing a low-flow shower head can reduce water consumption by up to three-quarters. This can have a significant impact on your water bill over a year's time.
5. Keep your toilet in good working order.
   
   Install a low flow toilet and check it regularly for leaks. You can do this by adding red food coloring to the tank. If the color appears in the toilet, you have a leak that needs to be repaired.
6. Shorten the length of your showers.
   
   Are you accustomed to taking long, leisurely showers? You could be wasting a lot of water in the process. Reducing shower time by one minute can reduce water consumption by up to 1,000 gallons per year.
7. Avoid washing fruits and vegetables under running water.
   
   Instead, fill a bowl partially with water and scrub your fruits and vegetables with a brush while in the bowl to remove pesticides and bacteria.