Be Water Wise All Week

Sunday

Start the week off fresh by filling a pitcher with tap water and storing it in your refrigerator. Not only will you have a cool, refreshing beverage at your fingertips, you'll also save water by not waiting for the tap to run cold each time you and your family members are thirsty.

Monday

Water outside only when necessary. If you know Mother Nature plans to water the garden, you won't have to. It is also a good idea to water early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid evaporation during the warmest part of the day.

Tuesday

Don't let the faucet run. Turn off the water while you brush your teeth. You'll save about 100 gallons of water per month once this habit becomes second nature. Does anyone else in your family leave the faucet on when they brush their teeth, shave, etc.?

Wednesday

There is no such thing as a little drip. A leaky faucet with a drip of just 1/16 of an inch in diameter can waste 10 gallons of water every day! Stop that drip by replacing worn washers and valve seals.

Thursday

Take a shorter shower today. Set a timer for five minutes and get out when it rings. It is also a good idea to install a low-flow shower head. Water savings can really add up when you control the flow--you could save about 450 gallons each month!

Friday

Check all the plumbing in your home. Proper maintenance is one of the most effective water savers. Faucet washers are inexpensive and take only a few minutes and a wrench to replace. Check all water taps, hoses and hose connections for leaks.

Saturday

Be aware of how you use water today by keeping a journal. Write down each time you turn on the tap, how long it was on, and what you used that water for. Keeping track of the water you used will make you more aware and teach you to make every drop count.

Adapted from "Be Water Wise: 7 Ways in 7 Days" by the American Water Works Association