Water Waste

In business, a little water conservation saves a lot of money! Water is often considered the world’s most precious resource.  A summer drought can impact Illinois agriculture, wetlands, bird and animal populations.  Rather than take tap water for granted, it makes great business sense to give water use some attention.

• Appoint someone to be responsible for tracking total water use per month and give them the ability and responsibility for creating and implementing a water conservation program.
• Learn when and how your business uses water. Businesses that use large quantities, such as manufacturers, may want to install sub-meters.
• Inspect the Restrooms: A leaking toilet can waste more than 50 gallons of water per day, while a dripping faucet can waste up to 1,000 gallons per week. Find and repair all leaks on your property and you can prevent the loss of several gallons of water each day.
• Conduct a toilet dye test - Many silent leaks go undetected. A simple dye test in your toilet tank can help identify costly leaks.
• Install a high-efficiency toilet or urinal - Replacing your old toilet or urinal may help you save money and help conserve water.
• Install a low-flow faucet aerator on the sinks - These devices are the most effective and inexpensive way to reduce water use at the tap. A regular faucet uses about 2.5 or more gallons per minute. By installing a low-flow aerator you can curb water use to only 1.5 gallons per minute. Low-flow aerators can be attached to existing faucets.
• Post a sign over the break area sinks - Running tap water while washing dishes can waste 2.5 gallons every minute. Fill the kitchen sink and dip dishes in water to wash or rinse. Consider installing foot pedals. Do not use running water to thaw food.
• Inform your employees about ways they can conserve water. Train them on the proper use of water using devices and appliances. Relay the importance of reporting and fixing leaks and being diligent about other wasteful practices.

Conduct monthly property maintenance April through October.

• Shut off or turn down water supply systems not in use. Read your business’ water meter. If you see spikes in water use check for leaks. Check your water pressure and install pressure-reducing valves if it is higher than 70 psi.
• Avoid watering the sidewalk. Water on sidewalks generally goes into storm drains, never getting back into local aquifiers.
• Use a broom instead of a hose to clean all paved areas. If hosing, use self-closing hose nozzles, or turn off water between rinses.
• Water only what your plants need.  Use soaker hoses and drought resistent plants.
• Be sure sprinklers are adjusted to water only plants and lawns, and water only at night or early morning. Be mindful of seasonal changes and regulate the schedule of your sprinklers; water may not be needed on rainy or cooler days. Soil moisture meters are great in helping you detect the right amount of water to efficiently water your lawn.