Smart indoor water use

Floridians are estimated to use an average of 112 gallons of water per person each day. How much of that is wasted?
South Florida Water Management District warns that leaks are the biggest water waster. Even a small faucet leak can waste 300 or more gallons of water per month. Your water meter can help you determine if you have a leak in your home. Turn off all faucets and water-using appliances, and make sure no one uses water during the testing period. Wait for the water heater and ice cube makers to refill, and then record the reading on your water meter. Use no water for 30 minutes, and read the meter again. If the reading has changed, you may have a leak.
 
Faucet and shower head leaks are easy to detect. Check faucets regularly for leaks at the faucet head and seepage at the base and its connections. Tightening connections or replacing worn washers may be all it takes to stop the water waste.

Leaks inside a toilet can waste up to 100 gallons per day. Some leaks are silent, some produce a running water sound, and others may be visible as a small trickle running from the rim to the water in the bowl. To detect silent leaks, remove the toilet tank lid and any colored cleaning agents. Flush to clear water in the bowl. Add dye tablets, leak detector fluid or a few drops of food coloring to the tank. If the tank is leaking, color will appear in the bowl within 10 to 15 minutes. Flush as soon as the test is complete, make needed repairs or call a plumber, who is also the person to call if you cannot locate leaks in your home.

Some other ideas for saving water indoors: Never let water go down the drain when there may be another use for it, such as watering plants or cleaning. Avoid unnecessary flushing by disposing of tissues, insects and other waste in the trash rather than the toilet. Make it a habit to turn the water off during tooth brushing, and think twice before running the washer with less than a full load.
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. Although the water savings may be minimal, every drop counts.

Thoughtful water use is the first step to protecting our water resources, setting a good example for children and possibly lowering your utility bill.