| Conservation FAQ's |
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What can I do if I suspect a leak? How can I tell if I have a leaky toilet? How much should I water my lawn? How can I find out how much water I am putting on my lawn? How many gallons of water does my toilet use? What is the biggest water user in my house? When is the best time for new plantings? Should I replace my old toilet? Should I replace my washing machine? Should I replace my showerhead? What are the best materials used for mulch? What plants need less water to survive and are suitable to the Northwest? What is the best way to water?
What can I do if I suspect a leak? Use your water meter to check for leaks
How can I tell if I have a leaky toilet? Place a few drops of food coloring in the toilet tank. Wait a few minutes. If color appears in bowl, you have a leak. Instructions for fixing a leaky toilet Instructions for fixing a leaky faucet How much should I water my lawn? Once inch per week, including rain is all your lawn needs. How can I find out how much water I am putting on my lawn? Do The Tuna Can Test to learn how. How many gallons of water does my toilet use? Washington State Law mandates that low-flow toilets be installed in new construction or when replacing a toilet. These generally use 1.6 gallons of water per flush. Older standard toilets use from 3-5 gallons of water per flush. What is the biggest water user in my house?
When is the best time for new plantings? Fall is a great time for new lawns and plantings. This will give plants time to take advantage of rainfall to provide the extra water they will need until established. Should I replace my old toilet?
Should I replace my washing machine? Although high efficiency clothes washers are typically more expensive than traditional machines, they save you money over time by lowering your water and energy bills. They wring out your clothes better, so your drying time is reduced. They are also gentler on fabrics – so clothes, towels and linens don’t wear out as fast. Efficient models can save up to 50% of water used for laundry. Kitsap PUD offers up to $50 rebate on approved models. Check our Washer Rebates page for details. Should I replace my showerhead? If you have an older, high flow-showerhead, replacing it means that your new water conserving showerheads will only use 2.5 gallons per minute and provide a comfortable shower. Mulching gardens two to three inches deep means less watering during even the hottest months. Organic mulches break down slowly amending the soil while slowing down weed growth and evaporation. Leave your grass clippings on your lawn to fertilize your lawn and decrease irrigation needs. What are the best materials used for mulch? Mulches can be inorganic, such as black plastic or rocks. Organic mulch is recommended however, as the mulch will break down and add nourishment to your soil. Some inorganic materials will actually absorb more sunlight and cause additional evaporation of water from the soil. What plants need less water to survive and are suitable to the Northwest? See WSU's Gardening in Western Washington for gardening hints. Right Plant, Right Place by Nicola Ferguson and Sunset’s The Western Garden Book are also excellent references. What is the best way to water? A sprinkler system does the best job at watering lawns. Add a rain sensor to shut off the system when it rains. Remember, one inch per week is enough for most lawns. Water shrubs, garden beds separately. Soaker hoses and drip systems are the most efficient method. Dig a few inches around plants and only water when the top two or three inches are dry. Make sure that water reaches the root zone. |
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