Facts About Water Use

Did you know that up to 75 percent of your indoor water use occurs in the bathroom?

• A shower uses about five to seven gallons of water every minute. A five-minute shower could use 25 to 35 gallons. Try changing to a low-flow shower head that uses only two gallons a minute.
• A leaky faucet that drips one drop of water per second wastes 2,700 gallons of water a year! Try replacing the o-ring or packing washer inside the valve.
• Faucets typically deliver a lot more water than you can use. Try installing an aerator to reduce flow.
• Leaving the tap running while you shave can waste five gallons of water - and two gallons while you brush your teeth. Try turning off the water while you brush your teeth and shave.
• Toilets are the #1 guzzler of indoor water. Old toilets use about 5 to 7 gallons a flush; even not-so-old toilets use 3-1/2 gallons a flush. Try filling a large plastic bottle with water, cap it, and place it inside the water tank. The bigger the container, the more water you save.
• Water evaporates 30 percent faster when you operate your sprinklers at midday. Try watering in the morning (before 9 a.m.) or in the evening (after 6 p.m.)

Return to Customer Services Home.