Water Conservation Tips: Reuse Water

Unused or slightly used water is often suitable for other purposes, even with no treatment or filtration. During a severe drought, reusing water may become a necessity. Start now by implementing a few water reuse ideas, such as those below, that way when maximum conservation is called for, you will already be making the most of any water before it goes down the drain!

• Collect the water you use for rinsing fruits and vegetables, then reuse it to water houseplants.
• When cleaning out fish tanks, give the nutrient-rich water to your plants.
• Use a commercial car wash that recycles water.
• Wash your car on the lawn, and you'll water your lawn at the same time.
• Direct water from rain gutters and HVAC systems toward water-loving plants in the landscape for automatic water savings.
• Support projects that use reclaimed wastewater for irrigation and industrial uses.
• One more way to get eight glasses of water a day is to re-use the water left over from cooked or steamed foods to start a scrumptious and nutritious soup.
• Wash your pets outdoors in an area of your lawn that needs water.
• Keep a bucket in the shower to catch water as it warms up or runs. Use this water to flush toilets or water plants.
• When you have ice left in your cup from a take-out restaurant, don't throw it in the trash. Dump it on a plant.
• When back flushing your pool, consider using the water on your landscaping.
• When you give your pet fresh water, don't throw the old water down the drain. Use it to water your trees or shrubs.
• If you accidentally drop ice cubes when filling your glass from the freezer, don't throw them in the sink. Drop them in a house plant instead.

Economize

Repair Leaks

Install Water Saving Devices

Saving Water Outdoors

Back to Water Conservation Page