As water rationing took affect in my corner of California last week, I’ve been looking for ways to cut back on water painlessly. Obviously, waste is the first place to cut.

Did you know these water facts?

On average, 50-70% of a household’s water use is outdoors.

A running garden hose pours out ten gallons a minute.

Watering your lawn every few days, instead of daily, can save 750-1500 gallons a month.

If you water in the morning, rather than the evening, you can save 300 gallons per month.

Running only full loads in the dishwassher or washing machine saves 300 to 800 gallons per month.

If you shorten your showers by even one or two minutes…the reduction can save up to 700 gallons per month.

Keeping the water on while you brush your teeth uses up 3 gallons of water.

Capturing tap water can save 200 to 300 gallons per month. While you wait for hot water to come down the pipes, catch the flow in a watering can to use later on house plants or your garden.

(source: Metropolitan Water District of Southern California MWD)

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