Family & Consumer Science News
Easy Ways to Be Water Wise
By Terri Black County Extension Agent

Even with the recent rains, it is easy to see that we are in the midst of a drought. Although we've had a few inches of rain in some areas, there is still a critical need to conserve water. Much water

conservation focus lies outdoors, but we must also remember

that a good deal of conser- vation takes place inside our homes. Water is undeniably an integral part of our lives. We depend on water to produce and prepare the food we eat, for recreation, sanitation, and other aspects of our health. Unfortunately, water is a limited resource. If we are not careful with our water, we could easily face a shortage.

How much water do you use each day? Probably more than you think. The American Water Works Association reports an average use of 110 gallons per day, per person. Add a leaky faucet or a careless resident to the equation and that amount could easily triple!

Seventy-five percent of our water use comes from the bathroom - flushing toilets and bathing. Other major uses of water include laundry, dishes, cooking, and drinking. Fortunately, there are as many ways to save water as there are to use it! Think it can't get any better? Some of these water-wise solutions will save you money in energy costs and water bills!

While the drought condition in this area was recently upgraded to mild, the situation could quickly return to extreme or severe. Why not practice the water saving tips below now and make them habits? Each person has a responsibility to conserve water, whether you share your water supply or have a private well. Teach your children and other family members how to save water. Lead by example. Also, remember that installing water-saving devices or employing water-wise habits can reduce water consumption 30-50 percent as well as reducing utility bills. Be wise where your water use is concerned!
To save water in the bathroom:
+ When brushing teeth, turn the water on only as needed.
+ When shaving or washing face and hands fill the sink and dip your razor or hands as needed.
+ Flush the toilet only when necessary. Tissues and insects can be thrown in wastebasket instead of the
toilet.
+ Take short showers, and avoid taking baths.
+ Perform this simple test to ensure that your toilet does not leak. Add food coloring to the tank. If toilet leaks,
color will begin to appear in bowl within 30 minutes. (Note: Food coloring may stain tank - flush as soon as
test is done.) A leaking toilet can waste as much as 200 gallons of water per day! Look for worn or corroded
parts - most replacement parts can be easily and inexpensively purchased.
To save water elsewhere in your home:
+ Only run full loads in your washing machine and dishwasher.
+ When washing clothes, check the manufacturer's directions before running a permanent press cycle.
This cycle may fill the tub an additional time and use up to 20 gallons of extra water.
+ Cook food in as little water as possible. Besides saving water, you will retain more nutrients in your food.
+ Limit the use of a garbage disposal since it needs a great deal of water to operate. Either save scraps so
you only need to run the disposal once or start a compost pile in your yard.
+ After washing dishes by hand, save rinse water to water outdoor plants.
+ Clean up spills and remove spots as soon as possible after they occur to minimize mopping and carpet
shampooing.
+ Repair dripping faucets by replacing washers.
+ Install flow restrictors on individual water fixtures such as faucets and showerheads.
+ Check for hidden water leaks. Check your water meter at the beginning and end of a two-hour period when
no one is using water. If your meter reading has changed, you have a leak. If you have a private well, listen
periodically for your pump. If it kicks on and off while no one is using water, you have a leak.