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Manage Your Usage
Wilmington Water recognizes the importance of water conservation and encourages its residents, businesses, and visitors to adopt practices that help preserve this vital resource. The City's water conservation efforts focus on reducing water usage, improving efficiency, and promoting sustainable practices.
Water Conservation Tips
Below are practical tips for conserving water at home, using WaterSense products, and adopting water-smart practices to reduce household water usage and promote environmental sustainability.
Tips for Reducing Household Water Use
In the Bathroom
- Turn off the tap while shaving or brushing your teeth
- Opt for showers over baths, but keep them short
- Use WaterSense-labeled products for greater savings
In the Kitchen
- Use a sink plug or wash basin when washing dishes by hand
- Fully load the dishwasher before running it
- Scrape plates instead of rinsing them before loading the dishwasher
- Keep drinking water in the refrigerator to avoid running the tap until it's cool
- Thaw food in the refrigerator overnight
- Compost food waste instead of using the garbage disposal
In the Laundry Room
- Wash full loads of laundry or adjust the water level for smaller loads
- Use cold water settings to save on energy bills
Tips for Efficient Water Use
In the Yard
- Create a water-smart landscape that enhances curb appeal and conserves water
- Water wisely by knowing when and how much to water
- Regularly check and maintain your sprinkler system
- Upgrade to a WaterSense labeled controller for in-ground irrigation systems
- Hire certified irrigation professionals to optimize your system's efficiency
- Get inspired by the Landscape Photo Gallery for water-smart landscaping ideas
Other Outdoor Uses
- Sweep driveways and sidewalks instead of hosing them down
- Wash your car with a bucket or use a commercial car wash that recycles water
- Cover your pool to reduce evaporation and consult the Pool Water Efficiency guide
During Hot Weather
- Implement water-saving measures to reduce waste
- Take extra steps to conserve water if a drought is declared in your area
WaterSense
WaterSense labels indicate products that meet EPA criteria for water efficiency and performance. These products help reduce water use, save money on utility bills, and protect the environment without sacrificing performance. Look for WaterSense labels on items like faucets, showerheads, toilets, and irrigation controllers to ensure water efficiency in your home.
Information on this page is from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Business Conservation Tips
The provided tips offer practical strategies for businesses, car washes, and hotels to conserve water effectively. From installing low-flow fixtures and recycling water to educating employees and guests, these measures can lead to substantial water savings, cost reduction, and environmental benefits across various industries.
Tips for Businesses
- Install Low-Flow Fixtures: Use low-flow faucets, toilets, and urinals to reduce water usage
- Fix Leaks Promptly: Regularly inspect plumbing and fix any leaks immediately.
- Upgrade Equipment: Invest in water-efficient appliances and equipment
- Educate Employees: Train employees on water-saving practices and encourage reporting of leaks
- Monitor Water Usage: Use water meters to track and manage water consumption
- Landscaping: Use drought-resistant plants and efficient irrigation systems
Tips for Car Washes
- Recycle Water: Implement water recycling systems to reuse water in the washing process
- High-Pressure, Low-Volume Nozzles: Use nozzles that reduce water usage while maintaining cleaning efficiency
- Regular Maintenance: Ensure equipment is regularly maintained to prevent leaks and inefficiency
- Waterless Cleaning Products: Consider using waterless or low-water car wash products for certain services
- Educate Customers: Inform customers about your water-saving efforts and encourage their support
Tips for Hotels
- Install Low-Flow Fixtures: Use low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets in guest rooms and common areas
- Towel and Linen Reuse Programs: Encourage guests to reuse towels and linens to reduce laundry loads
- Efficient Laundry Practices: Use high-efficiency washing machines and wash full loads only
- Smart Irrigation Systems: Install smart irrigation controllers to optimize watering schedules based on weather conditions
- Guest Education: Provide information to guests about water conservation and how they can help
- Monitor and Manage Usage: Regularly monitor water usage and set conservation targets
By implementing these tips, businesses can significantly reduce their water consumption, leading to cost savings and a positive environmental impact.
Read more about business responsibilities in the Wilmington City Code.