Bathroom water use accounts for 75% of water used in the home.
• If the shower fills a one-gallon bucket in less than 20 seconds, replace the showerhead with a water-efficient model or install an aeration filter in the showerhead. These changes can save up to 750 gallons of water a month.
• Shortening shower time by one to two minutes can save up to 150 gallons of water per month.
• Showers generally use less water than baths. To compare the difference prepare a bath and note the final water level before you enter the bathtub. The next day plug the drain and take a shower. Exit the tub when you are done and compare the water level of the shower to the bath.
• Upgrade older toilets with water efficient models.
• Listen for dripping faucets. Fixing a leak can save 300 gallons a month or more.
• Keep a bucket in the shower to catch water as it warms up or runs. Use this water to flush toilets or water plants.
• Don’t use the toilet to get rid of trash. This wastes water and increases the work load at the waste water treatment plant.
• Turn off the water while you wash your hair to save up to 150 gallons a month.
Of total household water use the washing machine accounts for approximately 14%.
• Run the washing machine only when it’s full. This can save up to 1,000 gallons a month.
• When doing laundry, match the water level to the size of the load.
• When buying a new washer choose one that is significantly more water and energy efficient than the minimum government standards also, make sure the washer has adequate wash cycle size adjustments to ensure the most efficient use of water.
• Washing dark clothes in cold water saves on water and energy while helping clothes to keep their color.