Day 32 of 110: Conservation Tips

(Originally Published Monday, March 17, 2014 – Blogger: One Daughter’s Point of View)

Here are a few conservation tips provided by DAR’s Conservation Committee.

1. Unplug devices when they aren’t being used–that includes the TV, computers and printers.
2. Use energy-efficient bulbs and turn lights off every time you leave a room.
3. Reducing the amount of hot water you use saves energy. Take shorter showers and fill bathtubs with less water.
4. Change shower heads to water-efficient shower heads and waste less water. If your shower fills a one-gallon bucket in less than 20 seconds, replace the showerhead with a water-efficient model.
5. Shorten your shower by a minute or two and you’ll save up to 150 gallons per month.
6. Turn off the water while brushing your teeth and save 25 gallons a month.
7. Run the dishwasher and clothes washer only when you have full loads. This can save 1,000 gallons a month.
8. Use garbage disposals sparingly. Compost vegetable food waste instead and save gallons every time.
9. Keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator for drinking instead of running the tap. This way, every drop goes down you and not the drain.
10. Don’t use running water to thaw food. Defrost food in the refrigerator for water efficiency and food safety.
11. Wash your fruits and vegetables in a pan of water instead of running water from the tap, and then reuse it to water your houseplants.
12. Soak pots and pans instead of letting the water run while you scrape them clean.
13. Listen for dripping faucets and running toilets. Fixing a leak can save 300 gallons a month or more.
14. Install an instant water heater near your kitchen sink so you don’t have to run the water while it heats up. This also reduces energy costs.
15. When buying new appliances, consider those that offer cycle and load size adjustments. They’re more water and energy efficient.