Water Conservation Tips for Consumers

Water Conservation Tips

The average Burnsville household uses about 5,000 gallons of water each month. Small changes at home can reduce your water use, lower your utility bill and help conserve this vital resource.

Indoors

Bathroom

• Toilets use 25%+ of household water. Don’t use them like trash cans.
• Check for leaks with a few drops of food coloring in the tank.
• Replace older models with low-flush toilets.

Showers and Sinks

• Showers use less water than baths. Limit time and use a low-flow head.
• Turn off water while brushing teeth, shaving or washing your face.

Kitchen and Laundry

• Run dishwashers and laundry only when full.
• Scrape, don’t rinse, dishes.
• Thaw food in the fridge, not under running water.
• Match washer water levels to the size of your load.
• Choose efficient appliances when replacing old ones.

Leaks and Maintenance

• A dripping faucet can waste 15–20 gallons a day. Fix leaks promptly.
• Insulate your water heater to reduce energy use.

Outdoors

Lawn and Garden

• Water before 10 a.m. to reduce evaporation.
• Lawns need about 1 to 1.5 inches/week, including rainfall.
• Let grass grow taller (1.5–2 inches) to shade roots and hold moisture.
• Aerate your lawn and remove dead grass in spring.

Water Usage

• Use mulch to retain soil moisture.
• Use a broom—not a hose—to clean driveways and sidewalks.
• Don’t water in the wind or midday heat.
• Adjust sprinklers to water only plants, not pavement.