Did you know by letting the water run while brushing your teeth, shaving, or washing dishes you can waste 3 to 5 gallons a minute?  That adds up to about 20,000 wasted gallons a year in your home.  And if your toilet leaks, or you take long showers, that amount will be even more. Follow these simple steps at home and you can easily save water.

• Repair leaking pipes and faucets
• Only run the dishwasher when its full
• Set the washing machine for the appropriate level
• Don't run the water while brushing your teeth, shaving, or washing your hands
• Store a pitcher of water in the refrigerator for drinking so you won't have to let the faucet run to get cold water
 • Don't use the toilet as a trash can 

How much water do you use?

Non-Conserving

Conserving Activities

Shower (5 minutes)

Regular showerhead uses 30 gallons

Low-flow showerhead/restrictor 15 gallons and Wet-down, rinse off 4 gallons

Toilet Flushing

Conventional toilet 5-7 gallons per flush

Ultra-low flush toilet 1.6 gallons

Brushing Teeth

Tap running 10 gallons

Wet brush, rinse, one half gallon or less

Shaving

Tap running 20 gallons

Fill basin 1 gallon

Washing Hands

Tap running 2 gallons or more

Soap and rinse 1 gallon or less

Dishwashing

Tap running 30 gallons

Wash and rinse in dishpan or sink 5 gallons

Automatic Dishwasher

Full cycle 15 gallons

Short cycle 11 gallons

Washing Machine

Full cycle, top water level 40 gallons

New "tumble-action" efficient clothes washer 25 gallons

Contact: Stephanie Duer
Water Conservation Coordinator
(801) 483-6860
stephanie.duer@slcgov.com