California is no stranger to drought. But as the climate changes and the state experiences more prolonged dry periods, California homeowners have to be increasingly mindful of how their water usage affects the environment. Fortunately, there are several changes that homeowners in California can make that will help them save water and use it more sustainably.
Beginning in 2021, the state of California has implemented new regulations to conserve water and promote water conservation. These regulations require all California homeowners whose residential water usage is greater than the state-mandated limit to drop it to the limit or face significant fines. Additionally, many local governments may have additional restrictions in place.
But there are many things you can do at the home level to conserve water and make a big difference. Here are some tips for reducing water usage in the home, in order to save water and help the state’s efforts towards water conservation.
Take or Reduce Shorter Showers
Showers use vast amounts of water, so taking shorter showers or reducing the time you are in the shower is one way to save water. Install low-flow shower heads which change how water is distributed, and eliminate the outgoing water rush that typically wastes water. Additionally, if you need to replenish the water you use while showering, consider using a container to gather water and divert it for other uses.
Plant Water-Saving Garden Plants
Planting water-saving plants is one of the best ways to decrease your water usage while tending a garden. Look for drought-tolerant plants, such as native California plants that don’t require much water. Additionally, using mulch around your plants, such as wood chips or shredded bark, can slow down evaporation and help your plants stay hydrated.
Adding a drip irrigation system can also save water while keeping your garden happy. These systems only need to be set up once and use significantly less water than traditional sprinkler irrigation systems.
Finally, maintaining your garden regularly will also help save water. Prune, trim, and weed on a regular basis to prevent your plants from becoming overgrown and using unnecessary water.
Use Low-Flow Fixtures
Installing water-efficient shower heads, low-flow toilets, and low-flow faucets can help reduce the water usage you incur day to day. Low-flow shower heads are equipped with special valves that reduce the water pressure but still allow for a satisfactory shower experience. Additionally, low-flow toilets and faucets use smaller amounts of water while still providing the same level of performance.
Monitor Your Water Usage
Monitoring your water usage is a great way to identify potential areas for improvement. Consider using an online tool to track your daily water usage and help identify areas where you might be able to cut down. This will help you stay aware of your water usage and make changes to conserve water over time.
Take Advantage of Local Rebates
Check with your local government to find out if there are any rebates or incentives for installing water-efficient fixtures. Many local governments provide incentives to help encourage water conservation within the community. Taking advantage of these can help you save money as well as water.
Reduce Your Home’s Water Usage
- Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth
- Fix any leaky taps in your home
- Install a rain barrel and collect rainwater for use in your garden
- Only run full loads of laundry and dishes
- Choose efficient WaterSense certified appliances
- Replace high water-use plants with native or water-efficient varieties
Conclusion
Water conservation is an important issue in California. By taking the time to understand your water usage, and making changes at home, you can become more water-efficient and help the state reduce its water usage. Following these simple water conservation tips can help reduce your water usage and put you on the path to sustainability.