I am happy to say that I am now much more aware of the importance of using water wisely. In addition the expense of wasting water, using water wisely helps the environment. It saves water for fish and animals; it helps preserve drinking water supplies; It also eases the burden on wastewater treatment plants-the less water we send down the drain, the less work the plants have to do to make it clean again. Using water wisely also saves energy. It saves the energy that water suppliers use to treat the water and move it to us. It also saves the energy we use in our homes to heat the water. 

The following are just a few tips that everyone can follow to conserve water:

1. Run the clothes and dishwasher only when they are full.
2. For cold drinks, keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap.
3. Collect the water you use for rinsing fruits and vegetables, then reuse it to water houseplants.
4. Shorten your shower by a minute or two.
5. Put food coloring in your toilet tank. If it seeps into the toilet bowl without flushing, you have a leak. Call your maintenance department to report it.
6. When running a bath, plug the tub before turning the water on and adjust the temperature as the tub fills up.
7. Designate one glass for your drinking water each day or use a refillable water bottle. This will cut down on the number of glasses to wash.
8. Don’t use running water to thaw food. Defrost food in the refrigerator for water efficiency and food safety.
9. When doing laundry, match the water level to the size of each load.
10. Turn off faucets tightly after each use.
11. Soak pots and pans instead of letting the water run while you scrape them clean.
12. Turn off the water while brushing your teeth.
13. If your toilet flapper doesn’t close after flushing it, call your maintenance department.
14. Drop your tissue in the trash instead of flushing it.
15. Listen for dripping faucets and running toilets. If you hear any potential drips or leaks, report it to your maintenance department.
16. Turn off the water while you wash your hair, or let the conditioner soak in.
17. Turn off the water while you shave.
18. When you give your pet fresh water, don’t throw the old water down the drain. Use it to water your house plants.
19. If you accidentally drop ice cubes, don’t throw them in the sink. Drop them in a house plant instead.
20. To save water and time, consider washing your face while in the shower.
21. Consider reusing your towels.
22. When you are washing your hands, don’t let the water run while you lather.

 For additional information on water conservation, visit www.wateruseitwisely.com.