Bathroom

• Check the toilet tank for leaks*
• Do not use the toilet as a wastebasket! 
• Consider installing a low-volume toilet that uses less than 2 gallons per flush.  This can also be done by using a filled bag or bottle to displace some of the water in the tank. 
• Be sure that it is not in the way of any moving parts.
• Replace showerheads with ultra-low-flow versions.
• Take shorter showers and fill the tub only a 1/3 full.
• Shut off the water while brushing your teeth or shaving.

Kitchen

• Only run automatic dishwashers when there is a full load or set the water level to the appropriate size load.
• Fill the sink or basin when washing and rinsing dishes by hand.
• Store drinking water in the refrigerator rather than letting the tap run for cool water.
• Run garbage disposals only when necessary.  Try starting a compost pile as an alternative.
• Instead of running the hot water for a long time to get it hot, try installing an instant water heater on your sink.

Household

• Remember to use extra water for watering plants, or cleaning instead of pouring it down the drain.
• Check pipes and faucets for leaks.  Not only can visible pipes and faucets have leaks, but those not in view can also be leaking.  To look for these leaks, check the water meter and do not run water for 2 hours.  Check the meter again.  If the number has changed then there is leak somewhere you could not see.
• Fix dripping faucets, it adds up!
• Install aerators with flow restrictors on all faucets.
• Run the washer when there is a full load or set the water level appropriately.
• Insulate water pipes to avoid running water longer for hot water.
• Install air-to-air heat/air conditioning systems instead of water-to-air.  They are just as efficient and do not waste water.
• Water softeners should run the minimum amount of regenerations and turned off while on vacation.
• If you have a well, listen to see if the pump is turning on and off even while water is not running.  If it does, there is a leak.

• To adjust water temperature, decrease the flow of the water temperature you want less of instead of increasing water flow of the water temperature you desire.
   

* Put a little food coloring into the tank.  Wait about 20-30 minutes. Check the toilet bowl, if the color of the water in the toilet bowl changes, then there is a leak.  Check the toilet for worn out parts, which are inexpensive to replace.  (Flush toilet when done, since food coloring may stain.)

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