10 Ways to Conserve Water

Water conservation is easy and makes a difference for you, your neighborhood, and your community. Here are a few simple ways that you and your family can conserve water both indoors and outdoors, where irrigation reductions can make the biggest difference.  These tips will help save you money while protecting the Everglades.

1. Be aware of water irrigation rules.

There is a Broward County-wide ordinance limiting irrigation to the hours of 5:00 pm to 9:00 am. It is estimated that as much as fifty percent of water use is due to landscape irrigation, so it’s extremely important to pay attention to lawn watering habits. Turf grass experts agree that lawn watering should be limited to no more than three days a week.

2. Water your lawn before sunrise or in the evening.

This will help your lawn retain moisture when you irrigate. Because there is less wind and sun during these times, your watering efforts will be more successful.

3. Water your lawn only when it needs it.

Step on your grass. If it springs back, when you lift your foot, it doesn't need water. Bluish-gray and folded leaf blades will indicate that it is time to irrigate.

4. Do not over water your lawn.

Lawns benefit most from a deep watering or about ½ to ¾ inch. Water only when your lawn needs it. Three times per week in the summer and twice a week in the winter is usually enough. Over watering can cause shallow roots, making the grass less drought tolerant and more susceptible to disease. This can cost you more time, more fertilizer, and ironically more water to maintain your grass.

5.  Purchase an automatic rain shut off device for your sprinkler system.

This handy device turns off your system when your lawn has received an adequate amount of rain. If you don’t have an automated system, purchase a rain gauge.  A visual inspection of the rain gauge will tell you whether recent rainfall has provided sufficient water for your landscape.  Better yet, only turn sprinklers on when the grass needs it.

6. Install water saving showerheads or flow restrictors.

These can save a household 500 to 800 gallons per month.

7. Run only full loads in the washing machine and dishwasher.

This can save 300 to 800 gallons per month.

8. Shorten your showers.

Even a one or two minute reduction can save up to 700 gallons per month.

9. Use a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways and sidewalks.

This can saves 150 gallons or more each time. At once a week, that's more than 600 gallons a month.

10. Use a pool cover to reduce evaporation when pool is not being used.