OUTSIDE THE HOUSE

LAWNS AND FLOWERBEDS - In developing a landscaping plan do some research by reading up or taking a class on landscape design. Contacting a local landscape contractor or plant nursery for water-wise landscaping and planting ideas is also a good place to start. A properly planned landscape project with the correct types of plants for our coastal climate and soils can save water and money.

WATER IN EARLY MORNING OR EVENING - You can lose as much as 30 percent of your water in evaporation from wind and heat when watering mid-day.

DON'T WATER SIDEWALKS AND STREETS - Position your sprinkler so it will just reach the edge of the landscaped area you want to water.

CLEANING DRIVEWAYS AND SIDEWALKS - Use a broom, not a hose.

WHEN WASHING YOUR CAR - Use a bucket and shut off the hose between rinses.

INSIDE THE HOUSE

CHECK YOUR TOILETS FOR LEAKS - Put a little food coloring or toilet dye tabs (available at the Water Board) in your toilet tank. If, without flushing, the color begins to appear in the bowl, you have a leak that should be repaired immediately.

PUT A PLASTIC BOTTLE IN YOUR TOILET TANK - To cut down on water waste, put an inch or two of sand or pebbles in a plastic bottle to weigh it down then. Fill it with water and put it in your toilet tank, safely away from operating mechanisms. In an average home, the bottles may displace and save ten or more gallons of water a day.

INSTALL WATER-SAVING SHOWERHEADS AND FLOW RESTRICTORS - Your local hardware or plumbing supply store stocks inexpensive water-saving showerheads or restrictors that are easy to install.

CHECK FAUCETS AND PIPES FOR LEAKS - Even the smallest drip from a worn washer can waste 20 or more gallons a day. Larger leaks can waste hundreds.

DISHWASHERS - Use your automatic dishwasher only for full loads.

WASHING MACHINE - Use your automatic washing machine only for full loads.