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Leaks and excessive irrigation are common causes for high water bills. Here are a few tips to help you save water. When it’s time to replace an appliance, consider the ENERGYSTAR™ model.
- Check for leaks (toilets, faucets, pipes, irrigation systems, etc.). A leaky faucet can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water a month or about $170 a year.
- Run your dishwasher and washing machine only when you have a full load. Running your dishwasher daily, half full, costs an extra $75 a year.
- Install a low-flow shower head and save $75 a year.
- Fix that toilet leak and save $170 a year. Add food coloring to the toilet tank and see if it leaks into the toilet bowl. If it does, your toilet is leaking.
- Use ENERGY STAR™ appliances.
- Water your lawn three-quarters of an inch once or twice a week before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. Watering twice a week promotes healthy roots and prevents weed growth.
- Equip automatic sprinklers with moisture-sensing cut-off switches. Some types just keep the sprinklers from operating in the rain. Others actually monitor soil moisture content and allow the system to water only when needed.
- Mulch to retain moisture in the soil. Mulching also helps control weeds that compete with plants for water.
- Plant native and/or drought-tolerant plants. Some grasses, ground covers, shrubs and trees do not need to be watered as frequently.
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