Water is a precious resource, and we all must find ways to conserve water where we can. Every step taken to conserve water saves you money and lessens the energy and chemical costs resulting from the water treatment process. Conservation also reduces the need for new infrastructure as the demands on our system are lessened and reduces the impact on the North Saskatchewan River.
Find the Leaks
- A tap that drips a mere six drops per minute will lose 1,200 litres of water per year. Pay attention to those dripping sounds and fix the leak(s).
- Complete a toilet leak test by doing a dye test. Use a couple of drops of food colouring to dye the water in the toilet's holding tank. If after 20 minutes the dye enters the bowl, you have a leak.
- Check for hidden leaks. Your water meter reading should not change when you go to bed and get up (before using water).
Toilet Leak Types
| Flapper Valve Leaks | ||
The most common reason for a leaking toilet is one that has an improperly working or sealing flapper. The flapper is the rubber valve in the bottom of the tank that lifts up when the toilet is flushed. If the flapper is worn or cracked, it allows water to continuously flow from the tank into the toilet bowl without flushing.
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| Flush Handle Problems | ||
| If the handle needs to be jiggled to keep the toilet from running, the flush level bar and chain (or the handle itself) may be sticking. Adjust the nut that secures it in the toilet tank. If that does not work, the handle may have to be replaced. | ||
| Overflow Tube Leaks | ||
| Ideally the water level should be set so that it is about even with the fill line on the back of the toilet tank (approximately 1/2" below the overflow tube). If the water is too high in the toilet tank and is spilling into the overflow tube, the water level can be adjusted by turning the adjustment screw or by very gently bending the float arm down so that the water shuts off at a level below the overflow tube. | ||
| Other Leak Types | ||
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Prevent Water Loss
- Ensure your sprinklers only spray the areas that need water (not the sidewalk). Do not water your lawn during the middle of the day when the water will evaporate. More than 50% of the water applied to lawns and gardens is lost due to evaporation or run-off due to overwatering.
- When washing your car, fill a bucket with water and use a sponge. This can save up to 300 litres of water.
- Turn off taps while brushing your teeth or shaving.
- Never run the dishwasher or washing machine without a full load.
- Replace your showerhead with a water-efficient model. This can save up to 10 litres per minute.
- When buying a new household appliance, check the water and energy efficiency ratings. Water and energy-efficient appliances will save you money in the long-term.
Lawn Watering Tips
Saving water and water utility fees, while establishing a healthy, lush lawn can be established by following these best practice tips:
- Schedule outdoor watering in synch with neighbours, and the heat of the day, to reduce the risk of evaporation.
- Even numbered addresses should water lawns and green spaces on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturday between 1 a.m. and 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
- Odd numbered addresses should water lawns and green spaces on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays between 1 a.m. and 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
- Allow the ground to absorb water. Water each area in two non-consecutive 15 minute intervals.
- Water your lawn or green space twice a week for optimal growth.
- Prevent overwatering by tracking natural rainfall.
- Position your sprinkler directly over your lawn and avoid all sidewalks/walking paths and driveways.
- Maintain working, usable equipment that does not have holes or leaks.
Checking Your Water Meter for Usage
For more information on how to check your water consumption visit the Water Meter page.