Run your washing machine and dishwasher only when they are full.
When doing laundry, match the water level to the size of the load.
Teach your children to turn the faucets off tightly after each use.
Make sure there are aerators on all of your faucets.
Choose new water-saving appliances, like washing machines that save up to 20 gallons per load.
Perform an annual maintenance check on your evaporative (swamp) cooler and fix any leaks.
Locate your master water shut-off valve so that water can be saved if a pipe bursts.
When you give your pet fresh water, don't throw the old water down the drain. Use it to water your trees or shrubs.
Insulate hot water pipes so you don't have to run as much water to get hot water to the faucet.
In the Bathroom
Install low-flow toilets.
Regularly check toilets for leaks.
Never use your toilet as a wastebasket.
Take shorter showers.
Install water-saving shower heads.
Turn off the water after wetting your toothbrush.
Rinse your razor in a partially-filled sink.
Make sure your toilet flapper doesn't stick open after flushing.
Plug the bathtub before turning the water on, then adjust the temperature as the tub fills up.
Consider bathing young children together.
To save water and time, consider washing your face or brushing your teeth while in the shower.
While staying in a hotel or even at home, consider reusing your towels.
Keep a bucket in the shower to catch water as it warms up or runs. Use this water to flush toilets or water plants.
When you are washing your hands, don't let the water run while you lather.
In the Kitchen
If you wash dishes by hand, don’t leave the water running for rinsing.
Use the garbage disposal sparingly, compost instead.
For cold drinks keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap.
Wash your produce in the sink or a pan that is partially filled instead of running water.
If you need to run the tap, collect the water and reuse it to water plants.
When you clean your fish tank, use the water you've drained on your plants. The water is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus, providing you with a free and effective fertilizer.
Designate one glass for your drinking water each day to cut down running your dishwasher.
Don't use running water to thaw food.
Soak your pots and pans instead of letting the water run while you scrape them clean.
Install an instant water heater on your kitchen sink so you don't have to let the water run to heat up.
Install water softening systems only when necessary. Save water and salt by running the minimum number of regenerations necessary to maintain water softness.
Cook food in as little water as possible. This will also retain more of the nutrients.
Select the proper size pans for cooking. Large pans require more cooking water than may be necessary.
If you accidentally drop ice cubes when filling your glass from the freezer, don't throw them in the sink. Drop them in your watering can.
