Outdoors
There are lots of ways to save water, but reducing the water you use outdoors can make the biggest difference of all. By making a few easy changes to the way we use water outside our homes – like watering lawns only when needed, adjusting sprinklers to avoid watering sidewalks and using a broom instead of a hose – you can save a significant amount of water every day.
Landscape
- Water early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler.
Save: 25 gallons / each time you water
- Check your sprinkler system frequently and adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered and not the house, sidewalk, or street.
Save: 15-12 gallons / each time you water
- Choose a water-efficient irrigation system such as drip irrigation for your trees, shrubs, and flowers.
Save: 15 gallons / each time you water.
- Water deeply but less frequently to create healthier and stronger landscapes.
- Put a layer of mulch around trees and plants to reduce evaporation and keep the soil cool. Organic mulch also improves the soil and prevents weeds.
Save: 20-30 gallons / each time you water / 1,000 sq. ft.
- Plant drought-resistant trees and plants.
Save: 30- 60 gallons / each time you water / 1,000 sq. ft.
- Information about evapotranspiration (ET) and weather based irrigation controllers is available at: http://www.cuwcc.org. and www.cimis.water.ca.gov
Cleanup
- Use a broom to clean driveways, sidewalks and patios.
Save: 8-18 gallons / minute
- Wash cars/boats with a bucket, sponge, and hose with self-closing nozzle.
Save: 8-18 gallons / minute
Activities
- Teach children that the hose and sprinkler are not toys.
- Install a pool/spa cover to reduce evaporation and filter backwash.
Save: 30 gallons / day
- Test pool and spa water frequently and maintain appropriate chemical balances to avoid the need to drain it except for structural repairs. Check your pool and pool plumbing for leaks.