August Conservation Tip

WATER

Our planet consists to 70% out of water, our body contains 75% water.

We need water for life.

Nevertheless do we use it much faster than it can be naturally replenished.

It took a shockingly high water bill to remind me that we really have to cut down on our fresh water consumption. Browsing the Internet I found some easy to implement suggestions on water conservation that I would like to share with you:

1. According to a study of the College of Agricultural Sciences in Pennsylvania, the toilet is number one in indoor water usage = saving water here has the biggest impact:
Don't flush down tissues or garbage.
Older toilets tend to leak, put a few drops of food coloring in your water tank, check after 30 minutes if any colored water is in your toilet bowl.
Consider installing a low-flush or dual-flush toilet.

2. Next in row of water consumption is the washing machine. Only wash a full load or adjust your water level accordingly. If you are looking for a new washing machine: Most Energy Star appliances not only use less energy but also less water. Front loaders need less water than top loaders.

3. Put less down the drain. Try to avoid to use your garbage disposal and compost instead.

4. As with the washing machine, only run the dishwasher when full. Modern dishwashers use less water than if you do your dishes by hand. If you do hand wash, don't let the water run all the time.

5.Turn the tap off while brushing your teeth or shaving.

6.Take shorter showers, an average shower uses up to 10 gallons per minute!
Think about installing a low flow shower head.

7. Plant according to your climate zone. Drought resistant lawn and/or plants need less water.

8. If you have an automatic sprinkler system, have it run in the early morning to avoid evaporation. If you notice water running off after the sprinkler ran, adjust your watering.

9. Mulch keeps moisture in the soil and weeds out.

10. Use a nozzle on your garden hose.