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
Reduce water used by installing a High Efficiency Toilet with the WaterSense label (maximum 1.28 gallons per flush). For a current list of HET toilets Click Here
Download a 2009 Toilet Rebate Application, HERE
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. "How to Replace a leaking Toilet Flapper”
Don't use the toilet as a wastebasket.
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.
When using an automatic irrigation system, make sure that it is well maintained and properly functioning. Adjust your watering schedule to match weather conditions and consider installing a rain sensor.
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 your car at home, use a hose with a shut-off nozzle along with a bucket of soapy water to wash the car.
Water Conservation
FIX A LEAK WEEK Tuesday, March 9, 2010
March 15 - 21, 2010 is Fix a Leak Week. Find and fix leaks to save more than 10,000 gallons of water per year.
MORE ABOUT FIXING LEAKS
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Laundry
Outdoor