|
Rain seems to fall for days on end in Seattle. However, it doesn't rain in Seattle as much as you may think! In fact, the Seattle area gets less rain than Tucson, Arizona in the heat of summer.
The region's water use peaks mid-May through mid-September because of increases in outdoor water use. This increase comes at a time of year when rainfall is lowest and fish need water most in the rivers and streams. Conserving water year-round helps ensure plenty of fresh water for people and wildlife for years to come.
Tips for Efficient Water Use
Use the following household and outdoor tips on efficient water use to help protect the environment and save money on utility bills. - Check faucets and pipes for leaks. A small drip can waste 20 or more gallons of water per day. To measure water wasted due to leaks, "Water Wiser Drip Calculator”.
- Install low-flow fixtures, then buy and install aerators for every faucet in the house.
Kitchen - When washing dishes by hand, fill the sink with water to wash and rinse. Do not wash dishes under a running faucet.
- When using a dishwasher, only wash full loads of dishes.
Bathroom - Check toilet for leaks. Use food coloring or a leak detection strip in the toilet tank. If color appears in the bowl without flushing, there is a leak that requires immediate attention. Leak detection dye strips are available to Skyway customers free of charge at the District office.
- Don't use the toilet as a wastebasket.
- Reduce the water level per flush by installing a low-flow toilet (1.6 gallons per flush or less) or a toilet displacement device. Use a plastic bottle weighted with pebbles and water. Never use a brick.
- Always turn the water off while shaving or brushing your teeth.
- Install water efficient showerheads and take shorter showers.
 Laundry
- Wash full loads of laundry, or choose an appropriate load-size setting for the number of items in the washer.
- Consider installing a high-efficiency washing machine - it can significantly reduce water and energy use.
 Outdoor
- Only water the lawn in the early morning or evening to reduce evaporation. Avoid watering during the heat of the day or when it is windy. Water deeply but infrequently – once or twice per week for most soils, and no more than one inch per week. For planting beds, use drip irrigation such as soaker hose instead of sprinklers.
- Use a broom to clean walkway and driveways instead of a hose.
- Wash your car at a commercial car wash. You'll save water and keep pollutants out of local lakes and streams.
- If it is necessary to wash you car at home, use a hose with a shut-off nozzle along with a bucket of soapy water to wash the car.
There are no articles at this time.
|
