Water and energy conservation are hot topics. As water rates continue to rise, putting a strain on budgets, conserving such a precious resource should be a priority for every family.

Homeowners waste thousands of gallons of water a day, without even realizing it!

• Small drips from a faucet can waste approximately 20 gallons of water per day.
• Toilets are not trash receptacles; every flush uses seven to ten gallons of water.

What can you do to help fix the problem?

• Check for leaks in problem fixtures, such as toilets and faucets.
• Use your meter to check for hidden water leaks.
• Install water-saving shower heads and low-flow faucet aerators.
• Take shorter showers. Long, hot showers can use five to ten gallons of water per minute. A four-minute shower, for example, can use between 20 and 40 gallons of water.
• Insulate water pipes to get hot water faster, which wastes less water while it’s heating up.
• Don’t leave the water running as you shave, brush your teeth, wash dishes or rinse vegetables.
• Only wash full loads of laundry and dishes.

For more information on water conservation, check out Earth Easy Sustainable Living, WaterSense and the Water Project.