In the Home

Saving water is easy and it can help you save on your utility bills. Water conservation can be done in and outside the home. Some basic water-saving tips:

• Watch for leaks! An obvious sign of a leak is a dripping faucet. To check if your toilet is leaking, place food colouring in the toilet tank and see if it seeps into the bowl without flushing the toilet. An unusually high water bill can also signal a leak.

• Upgrading old appliances can save water and money. Older refrigerators, air conditioners, and ice-makers are cooled with water, but newer ones are air-cooled. Newer washing machines also offer cycle and load size adjustments that can save you money.

• Replace shower heads and toilets with newer, low-flow models.

• Run the dishwasher and laundry machine only when you have a full load.

• Wash dark-coloured clothing in cold water. This saves water and energy, as well as maintains the colours.

• Use a pan of water to wash your fruits and vegetables, instead of running water. This water can also be reused to water houseplants.

• Defrost food in the refrigerator instead of under running water.

• Turn the water off while brushing your teeth.

• Most towns and cities have Toxic Waste Round-ups where you can safely dispose of paints, batteries, motor oil, cleaners, etc. Contact your local municipal office for information on proper disposal.

• Use phosphate-free or biodegradable soaps, detergents and cleaners.

• Use a broom rather than a hose to clean driveways and sidewalks. 
  Not only does this save water, but oil, antifreeze, salt and other contaminants will not be washed right into the storm drains or nearby waterways.

• Medicines flushed down the toilet are not removed at the water treatment plant. Please return them to the pharmacy.

• Drinking water taken from private sources such as wells should be tested on a regular basis. Contact your health region for free testing of your household water supply.