It’s all over the news, on freeway signs, on bench ads and even on billboards…CONSERVE WATER! But even with all the commercials and ad’s water consumption actually increased this summer by 1%. It’s sad to say but residents just don’t want to go through the inconvenience of having to change old habits and stop using so much water. The reality is, is that our water resources are at an all-time low. Just think back to this past winter. Our rainy season seemed quick and short didn’t it? Well that’s because it was! According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, rainfall for 2013 was at an all-time low with only 3.60 inches of rain compared to a yearly average of 14.93 inches for Los Angeles. The drought we are experiencing is not something to take lightly and even the smallest changes can make a big difference. Just think, if you save 10 gallons of water per day that adds up to 3,650 gallons of water saved per year!! Changing habits is hard but the key is to start with small minor changes that will help save water and make changing old habits a breeze! Here are some suggestions to help you make the change towards water conservation in your home!
- Lower the water pressure in your shower head. Water Saved = 5 – 20 Gallons/Shower
- Shorten your shower by 2 minutes. Water Saved = 5 Gallons/Shower
- Wash your car at a self-service car wash. Water Used = 12 Gallons (Washing your car at home = 40 – 80 gallons)
- Sweep your driveway instead of hosing it down. Water Saved = 150 Gallons
- Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth. Water Saved = 3 Gallons