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
- Reduce your watering days to once or twice per week. Water your lawn only when it needs it. 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.