Water Saving Tips

Household leaks are most commonly found in the bathroom and especially in toilets. Use these tips to save water in the bathroom:

• Take shorter showers and save 5 to 7 gallons a minute
• When taking a bath, fill the tub only halfway and save 10 to 15 gallons
• Install water-saving toilets, showerheads and faucet aerators. Place a plastic bottle filled with water in your toilet tank if you cannot switch to a low-flow toilet.
• Turn off the faucet while shaving, washing your hands or brushing your teeth. Faucets use 2 to 3 gallons a minute.
• Don’t use the toilet as a wastebasket, and don’t flush it unnecessarily. Visit Trash It. Don’t Flush It. to learn more.

Learn how to Detect a Leak in Your Toilet.

• Run the dishwasher and washing machine only when full. Save even more by using the short cycle.
• Install faucet aerators.
• Turn off the water while washing dishes. Kitchen faucets use 2 to 3 gallons a minute. Filling a basin only takes 10 gallons to wash and rinse.

• Use a self-closing nozzle on your hose.
• Sweep your sidewalk or driveway instead of using water.
• Water plants before 9am or after 7pm and don’t overwater them.
• Use a rain barrel.

If you have a lawn or garden, visit Water-Saving Tips for Lawns & Gardens.

• Repair leaky faucets and turn taps off tightly. A slow drip wastes 15 to 20 gallons each day.
• Don’t open fire hydrants.

If you see a leaking or running fire hydrant, please report it to 311 or fill out this online form so we can follow up.