We catch water. What does that mean? We have a tankless water heater so while we’re waiting for our water to get hot for washing dishes or for showering, we use a bucket to catch the water that would go down the drain. Because we live in rainy western Oregon, in the winter we use this water to flush our toilets. (Year-round we practice what I refer to as “drought flushing” – also known as “if it’s yellow, let it mellow. If it’s brown, flush it down.” I call it drought flushing because I first heard of it one summer in the Seventies when we were experiencing a very dry spell and the citizens were asked to cut water use.) In the summer, we use this water in the flower pots and garden beds. So many folks complain about their water bill. By being conscious while using water, those bills can be reduced. Catching water and reducing flushing are simple ways to cut down on your water consumption. Remember, the water we use for flushing and for watering our gardens is clean, potable water. In many countries of the world, they are agog that we use this water for flushing our toilets and for washing our cars.
More ways to reduce your household water waste:
- turn off the faucet when brushing your teeth or washing the dishes instead of letting it run.
- water your yard the correct amount – check with your local extension agency for recommendations.
- consider planting native plants that are adapted to the seasons in your area; they require less water.
- when you boil or steam food, put that water in a container; when cool, put it in the garden.
Here are some links with more tips for reducing your water waste:
National Geographic water tips