Water Resources Directory/Best Practices/Conservation/Techniques

Water Conservation Practices

Sink & Toilet in one-A toilet in which the cistern is filled by greywater from the sink above it

Grey Water System-A system in which water from sinks and laundry is recycled and used for outdoor irrigation, toilet water, and more. Toilet Displacement Devices-Non-toxic bricks or plastic containers (e.g., milk jugs filled with water or pebbles) can be placed in a toilet tank to reduce the amount of water used per flush. By placing between one and three such containers in the tank, more than 41 l of water can be saved per flush. Low-Flow Shower heads-Showers account for about 20% of the total indoor water use in a household. By replacing the standard 18 l/min shower heads with 10 l/min shower heads, which cost less than $5 each, a family of four can save approximately 80,000 l/year.

Faucet Aerators-Faucet aerators spread the flow of water from a faucet into many little droplets. This helps save water and reduce splashing. Aerators are easily installed and can reduce the volume of water use at a faucet by as much as 60% while still maintaining a strong flow. Low-Flush Toilets-Conventional toilets use 15 to 20 l of water per flush, but low-flush toilets use only 61 l of water or less. Since low-flush toilets use less water, they also reduce the volume of waste-water produced.

Pressure Reduction Valves-Pressure reduction valves can reduce the water pressure in a home. A reduction in water pressure can save water in other ways: it can reduce the leaking of water pipes, leaking water heaters, and dripping faucets. Drip Irrigation System(trickle irrigation/micro-irrigation)-an irrigation method which saves water and fertilizer by allowing water to drip slowly to the roots of plants, either onto the soil surface or directly onto the root zone, through a network of valves, pipes, tubing, and emitters. High Efficiency Washing Machine-A special kind of washing machine that reduces the amount of water used in a cycle. Some washers measure the weight of the load in order to determine the amount of water needed for the cycle. Garden Hose Nozzles-Shut off water when not in use instead of letting it run. Organic Mulch-Helps retain moisture around plants which keeps you from having to use a lot of water.

Rain Sensor-This device connects to an automatic irrigation system that causes the system to shut down in the event of rainfall.

Rain Gauge-Measures the amount of rainfall and helps you water plants accordingly. Insulated Hot Water Pipes-Allow more immediate hot water at the faucet and for energy savings.

Tankless Water Heater-A water heater that heats water before it is directly distributed for end use as required; a demand water heater.