It is more important than ever for each of us to use water wisely and efficiently.

With booming populations, prolonged droughts and increased demand on a limited supply of water, it is more important than ever for each of us to use water wisely and efficiently to make sure our supplies last.

For Texas, the average family uses approximately 141 gallons of household water per day. Luckily, there are many ways each of us can conserve and use water wisely every day. Here’s a sample of smart, simple choices you can make whenever and wherever you use water — outdoors or indoors.

  • Save Water Outdoors
    1. Sign up for WaterMyYard.org and learn how much water is just enough for your yard each week.
    2. Water only before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m. to minimize evaporation (during warm weather months).
    3. Run your sprinklers in short cycles to allow the grass to absorb water and reduce runoff. Learn to Cycle and Soak.
    4. If you use a sprinkler system, make sure you’re using it effectively and efficiently.
    5. Raise mower blade height during summer and avoid cutting more than 1/3 of the leaf blade at one time to conserve water and reduce plant stress.
    6. Check outside spigots, pipes and hoses for leaks, and repair or replace as needed.
    7. Plant native plants to North Texas to reduce the amount of water your landscape requires. Learn more about proper landscape practices from the Texas AgriLife Extension Service.
    8. Download the Water Efficient Landscaping guide to learn more about saving water outdoors.
  • Save Water Indoors
    1. Install low-flow toilets, shower heads, and faucets throughout your house.
    2. Wash dishes in the dishwasher rather than by hand. Don’t waste water pre-rinsing dishes, and run the dishwasher only with a full load.
    3. Invest in an energy-efficient clothes washer, adjust the water level to your load size, and run the clothes washer only with a full load.
    4. Turn off the water while you shave, and rinse your razor in a plugged sink rather than under a running faucet.
    5. Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth and washing your face or hands.