CONSERVATION CORNER

INDOOR WATER USE CHECKLIST

Since we are now in the middle of winter and outdoor water use is virtually nonexistent, its time to review how we use water indoors and make sure we haven't drifted back into some wasteful habits. For most of us, the checklist is pretty short.

Leaks and drips

There should be no confusion about these. Leaks and drips clearly waste water and are bad news. Worse yet, those little leaks can add up to more than you think, sometimes hundreds of gallons per day. Locate and repair all leaks and drips immediately. It's the only responsible thing to do for both yourself and the community. Make sure you check your toilet. Toilet leaks regularly go unnoticed. Dye tablets for checking for toilet leaks are available from your water purveyor.

Showers, sinks, & toilets

Make sure all of your indoor water outlets and toilets are low-flow/low-flush. Showerheads and sink faucets should have flow-rates less than 2 gallons per minute. Toilets should flush using less than 2 gallons per flush. If you know of any faucets or toilets that do not meet these standards, repair or replace them. If you are not sure, call us about an indoor water audit and we'll help you find out. Run the water in sinks and showers only as long as you need to. Running water when it isn't needed is wasteful.

Other appliances

Believe it or not clothes washers and dishwashers are also available in low water use models. High efficiency clothes and dishwashing uses as little as half the water per load of conventional washing. Never run these appliances unless you have a full load and if you are considering buying a new machine, purchase a high efficiency model. Even if it costs a little more initially, over the life of the machine you'll more than make up the difference in reduced water and energy costs.

MAKE WATER CONSERVATION A WAY OF LIFE AND
HELP CONSERVE THE BIG BEAR VALLEY'S MOST PRECIOUS RESOURCE

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