It’s trending, so of course you know: California drought is in its fourth straight year. Governor Jerry Brown issued an executive order on April 1st, 2015, calling for the first ever statewide mandatory 25% reduction in urban water use.
San Francisco is actually ahead of the game. We use less water than most California cities and, as a dedicated (and effective!) green city, we’ve been doing our part since last year with voluntary 10% water use reductions.
Still, since the situation is so serious, I wanted to add my voice to the conversation.
10 California Drought-Busting Tips
- Install faucet aerators and water efficient showerheads. They save a gallon of water per minute.
- Do not use water to clean sidewalks, walkways, patios or driveways. Instead use a broom to clean up any debris that has accumulated.
- Wait until you have a full load before doing laundry or dishes.
- Shut the water off while you are brushing your teeth. Leaving it running only wastes water.
- Take shorter showers.
- Replace old toilets with newer, more efficient models. Bay Area water agencies offer cash rebates for the purchase of select high-efficiency toilets.
- Use your dishwasher instead of washing dishes by hand.
- When cooking, use as little water as needed. For example, fill the sink and scrub veggies instead of running water over them.
- Keep a bucket in the shower when bathing. You can use the water you collect to water houseplants or your garden.
- Pick up free efficient conservation plumbing fixtures at 525 Golden Gate Ave., San Francisco. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Bring proof of address.
As homeowners, there is a lot we can do to make a difference simply by maintaining our fixtures and plumbing. For more on how to save water, contact the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission.
If you have fresh ideas about water conservation or how San Francisco homeowners can make a difference for the California drought, reach out.
-- DL
