Indoor Water Saving Tips

Although Tooele City has not placed restrictions on water usage for 2004, we are asking citizens to be aware of how they use this valuable resource and to conserve as much as possible. Following are some tips to help in the effort to save inside water.

• Never pour water down the drain when there may be another use for it such as watering a plant or garden, or for cleaning around your home.
• Repair dripping faucets by replacing washers. If your faucet is dripping at a rate of one drop per second, you can expect to waste 2,700 gallons per year. This adds to the cost of water and sewer utilities and adds to your water bill.
• Check for toilet tank leaks by adding food coloring to the tank. If the toilet is leaking, color will appear in the toilet bowl within 30 minutes. Check the toilet for worn out, corroded or bent parts. (Flush as soon as test is done, since food coloring may stain tank.)
• Take shorter showers. Replace your showerhead with an ultra-low-flow version. Some units are available that allow you to cut off the flow without adjusting the water temperature knobs.
• Place a bucket in the shower to catch excess water and use this to water plants. The same technique can be used when washing dishes or vegetables in the sink.
• In the shower, turn water on to get wet, turn off to lather up, then turn back on to rinse off. Repeat when washing your hair.
• If the toilet handle frequently sticks in the flush position letting water run constantly, replace or adjust it.
• Operate automatic dishwashers and clothes washers only when they are fully loaded. Set the water level for the size of load you are using.
• Store drinking water in the refrigerator. Don't let the tap run while you are waiting for cool water to flow.
• Do not use running water to thaw meat or other frozen foods. Defrost food overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.