10 Tips to Save Water for Water Conservation Month
10 Tips to Save Water for Water Conservation Month
by Observer Staff April 4, 2024
The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s (District) Governing Board declared April Water Conservation Month at its March meeting. April is historically one of the driest months of the year and typically marks the peak demand season for public water suppliers.
The District is currently under a Modified Phase I Water Shortage through July 1, 2024, which prohibits “wasteful and unnecessary” water use and limits outdoor irrigation to one day per week in Hillsborough County.
With these 10 simple tips, you can lower your monthly water bill and do your part to save hundreds of gallons of water:
INDOOR
Only run your washing machine and dishwasher when they are full.
Use the shortest washing cycle for lightly soiled loads; normal and permanent-press wash cycles use more water.
Thaw frozen food in the refrigerator or microwave, not under running water.
Scrape, don’t rinse, your dishes before loading in the dishwasher.
Install high-efficiency showerheads, faucets, and toilets.
OUTDOOR
Check your home’s irrigation system for leaks.
Turn off your irrigation system and only water as needed.
Don’t leave sprinklers unattended.
Use a hose with a shut-off nozzle when washing the car.
Consider installing a rain barrel with a drip irrigation system for watering your landscaping. Rainwater is free and better for your plants because it doesn’t contain hard minerals.
Check for leaks, both inside and outside of your home. Turn off all faucets and water-using appliances and make sure no one uses water during the testing period. Wait for the hot water heater and ice cube makers to refill and for regeneration of water softeners. Go to your water meter and record the current reading. Wait 30 minutes. (Remember, no water should be used during this period.) Read the meter again. If the reading has changed, you have a leak.
For more information about water conservation, please visit the District’s website at WaterMatters.org/Water101.
from Plant City Observer