The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) is offering six easy ways to prepare for your holiday meals and travels without running up your water bill.
During the holidays, water plays a role in everything from preparing your food to prepping your home for time away during this festive season. Here’s how to incorporate water conservation into your holiday plans:
- Defrost frozen foods in the refrigerator or the microwave instead of running hot water over them.
- Rinse vegetables and fruits in a sink or pan filled with water instead of under running water. This water can then be reused to water houseplants. A running faucet can use approximately 2 gallons per minute.
- Select the proper size pans for cooking. Large pans require more cooking water than may be necessary.
- Run your dishwasher only when you have a full load. Standard dishwashers can use 5 gallons of water or more per load. If handwashing, turn the water off when you’re soaping up the dishes.
- Check for indoor and outdoor leaks before you head out for the holidays. A leaky toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day!
- Consider upgrading to a WaterSense labeled smart irrigation controller that can automatically adjust to your lawn's water needs while you enjoy your holiday travels.
For more water conservation tips, please visit the District’s website at WaterMatters.org/Water101.
Subject
Water Conservation