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Published On: Tue, Jun 9th, 2015

5 Ways to Save Water During the California Drought

 photo D. Sharon Pruitt from Hill Air Force Base, Utah, USA

photo D. Sharon Pruitt from Hill Air Force Base, Utah, USA

If you’re a resident of California, you have constantly been reminded about the current California drought situation. Although next to the Pacific Ocean, California is quickly running out of water, which caused Governor Brown to declare a drought State of Emergency back in January 2015. Residents and businesses in California are now being urged to limit their water usage—in fact, all state residents must comply with a 25 percent mandatory conservation rate.

For some homes and businesses, cutting down on water isn’t a difficult task. For others, though, it can be a challenge. In order to help keep the California water supply alive, the following are five ways that you can save water during the current California drought.

  1. Fix leaks.

If there is any water leaking in your home—even a small drip from a faucet—you need to get it fixed as soon as possible. Small leaks will eventually add up, and you may be using a significant amount of water over time. Go through your home and make note of all the leaks you notice, no matter how big or small. If you’re handy, you can try to control the leaks yourself by performing small plumbing tasks. If the leak is larger, then you should consider hiring a professional plumber to come and inspect your home and maintain the leaks. Doing so will help ensure that you save water during the California drought and aren’t contributing to the cause. Click here for more information on professional plumbers in the California area.

  1. Change your faucets.

Most people don’t realize that their faucets may be the cause of over water consumption. Instead of a traditional faucet, try to look for a green faucet option instead. These faucets conserve water by decreasing the amount of water that comes through. You can buy water conservation faucets for your kitchen and bathroom, and you can also buy conservation shower heads too.

  1. Flush conservatively.

We have a habit of flushing the toilet anytime we go, and this can be a huge waste of water. If possible, try to decrease the amount of times you flush. For example, if it’s just urine, try to let it sit instead and let other people go before you flush. Obviously, defecation would need to be flushed right away. Use the old adage: if it’s yellow, let it mellow, and if it’s brown, flush it down.

If you have a problem with that, opt for a conservation toilet instead. These toilets have two separate types of flushing systems. There is one button that you use for urine, which uses much less water. There’s another button for feces, which uses more water. This will significantly help to reduce the amount of water that is used in your home.

  1. Only wash full loads.

You need to wash your dishes and wash your clothes, but if you’re always washing a half-full dishwasher or washing machine, you’re wasting water. Be sure that when you use these appliances, you’re always washing them when they’re completely full. This will minimize the amount of loads you need to do, which will conserve water. You should also opt for any conservative cycles you may have. For example, a quick wash will use less water, so if your clothes or your dishes aren’t extremely dirty, this option will use less water than the other options.

  1. Shorten those showers.

Taking a long hot shower is often a great way to start your day, but it’s not a good idea for a drought. Be sure that you are limiting the length of your showers so that you can conserve water. For example, set a time limit for everyone in your home, such as three to five minutes. This is enough time to get in, get washed, and get out, and doesn’t leave room for dilly-dallying.

The more of these tips you can use to help conserve your water usage, the more helpful you will be to control the California drought.

Guest Author: Paul Smith

 

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  1. India’s Brutal Heat Wave: A Future Global Crisis? - The Global Dispatch says:

    […] drought issues to occur throughout the region. Residents of California know the importance of saving water during drought. However, with the current heat related conditions and deaths plaguing India, welcoming rains may […]

  2. Boston Standard says:

    Great tips! Good ones to follow, regardless of location.

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