• Limit lawn watering to 1–2 times per week for 30 minutes. During hot, dry weather events, approximately 50–70% of all drinking water produced in Central Indiana is used for watering lawns, with automated irrigation systems often pulling the largest volume. Most Central Indiana lawns only need watering one to two times per week for no more than 30 minutes at a time. Watering lawns and other plants too often results in shallow roots, weed growth, fungus, and stormwater runoff that can impact local streams. Also, consider buying smart irrigation systems. The use of smart sprinkler controllers may be able to save you between 30% and 50% on your monthly water bills. Smart sprinkler systems collect data via the internet and/or connected sensors about local outside humidity, moisture, and rain amounts. Using that information lets the sprinkler adjust its watering schedule accordingly to use less water.

• Sweep driveways, sidewalks, and steps rather than hosing them off. Check your garden hose connections for leaks. If your hose connection leaks at the spigot or at a connection with another hose, replace the nylon or rubber hose washer and tighten the connection.

• Check for and repair leaks in your plumbing, such as your toilet, faucets, and pipes. A leaky toilet can waste 200 gallons or more per day. To detect leaks in the toilet, add food coloring to the tank water. If colored water appears in the bowl, the toilet is leaking.

• Check for the U.S. EPA’s Water Sense and Energy Star labels when buying dishwashers and clothes washers. These labels indicate appliances and plumbing fixtures that save water or energy. A high-efficiency washing machine that can save over 50% in water and energy use. Use water-saving showerheads, toilets, and faucet aerators.

• Only run the dishwasher and washing machine when they are full, and use a water-saver cycle if you have one.

• Don’t leave the water running as you brush your teeth, shave, or wash dishes. Take shorter showers.

• Installing or using decorative water features is not advised, particularly if the water is not recirculated. Also, avoid purchasing recreational water toys that require a constant stream of water.

Conservation Links:

• United States Environmental Protection Agency
• http://www.epa.gov/watersense

• American Water Works Association
• http://www.awwa.org/waterwiser

• Water Environment Federation
• http://www.agry.purdue.edu/turf

• IUPUI Center for Earth and Environmental Science
• http://www.cees.iupui.edu/