Suzanne O’Connor’s Bargains LA

Water Saving Tips

Now is the time to start conserving water. When the Feds are severely limiting the supply of water to the San Joaquin Valley, you know this drought is getting serious. Remember, every drop counts and in a drought, excessive water use will cost you!

In our home we have taken the following steps.

1. There is a now a wind up kitchen timer in the bathroom so we limit our showers to 10 minutes or less. On days when I don’t have to wash my hair, the showers are limited to 5 minutes or less.

2. The automatic timers are disconnected on the lawn sprinklers so we manually have to water only when necessary. Twice a week max, and only for 8-10 minute intervals first thing in the morning and we use a timer for those too.

2. Could be time to replace your toilet. If your home was built before 1992 and the toilet has never been replaced, then it is likely that you do not have a water efficient 1.6 gallon per flush toilet.

3. If you’re in the market for a new washer/ dryer, look for Energy Star™ rated washers that have a Water Factor at or lower than 9.5, use 35-50% less water and 50% less energy per load. Only wash full loads in both your dishwasher and washing machine.

4. Spring planting time is here. Consider planting drought tolerant / native plants that won’t use as much water. Also consider using a drip system for watering.

5. Though I personally hate them, consider installing low flow showerheads. They really do limit the flow of water. Available at most hardware stores.

If this drought gets any worse, we will probably stop using our dishwasher and manually do the dishes shutting the water off between rinses. And completely stop watering our lawns.

Check out the DWP website for more tips and information

http://www.ladwp.com/ladwp/homepage.jsp