If you are experiencing a higher-than-normal utility bill, consider the following water waste issues at home as they may be contributing to the increase.

Top Ten Water Wasters at Home and What You Can Do About Them*

1. Check your home plumbing for leaks. A leaky faucet or toilet can waste thousands of gallons per year.
2. Install water-saving showerheads and faucet aerators, available at your hardware store, if you don’t already have them in place. A shower can use up to 7 gallons of water per minute. Don’t let the shower run too long while waiting for it to warm up or while soaping up.
3. Sweep, don’t wash, sidewalks and driveways. Instead of using a hose, use a broom or leaf blower, and save 3-5 gallons of water per minute.
4. If you need to water your lawn, do it every other day in the early morning hours. This will minimize evaporation and increase water penetration.
5. When you have to replace a water-using appliance, be sure to install a water-efficient model.
6. Landscape with plants that require little water and mulch around ornamental plantings to conserve moisture.
7. Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth. You probably only need the water in three short bursts – to rinse your toothbrush initially, to rinse it after use, and to rinse your mouth.
8. Flush only when needed. Don’t use the toilet as a wastebasket.
9. Install a shut-off nozzle at the end of your hose. Use only the water needed for outdoor tasks, such as washing your car.
10. Only use dishwashers and washing machines when you have a full load. Water-saving models will allow you to adjust the washer’s water level.

****** BONUS TIP ******

Keep a container of drinking water in the refrigerator. This will save running the tap while waiting for the water to cool. For good health, don’t scrimp on hand washing or washing fresh vegetables.

* If your area has water restrictions, car washing, lawn watering or other activities may be limited.