Ten Ways to Save Water Outside

(1) Water your lawn only when it needs it. A good way to see if your lawn needs watering is to step on the grass. If it springs back up when you move, it doesn't need water. If it stays flat, fetch the sprinkler.

(2) Deep-soak your lawn. When you do water, do it long enough for the moisture to soak down to the roots where it will do the most good. A light sprinkling can evaporate quickly and tends to encourage shallow root systems.

(3) Water during the cool parts of the day. Early morning generally is better than dusk since it helps prevent growth of fungus.

(4) Don't water the gutter. Position your sprinklers so water lands on the lawn or garden, not on paved areas. Also avoid watering on windy days.

(5) Plant draught-resistant trees and plants. Many beautiful trees and plants thrive with far less watering than other species.

(6) Put a layer of mulch around trees and plants. Mulch will slow evaporation of moisture and discourage weed growth too.

(7) Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks.

(8) Don't run the hose while washing your car. Clean the car with a pail of soapy water. Use the hose just to rinse it off.

(9) Tell your children not to play with the hose and sprinklers.

(10) Check for leaks in pipes, hoses, faucets and couplings. Leaks outside the house may not seem as bad since they're not visible, but they can be just as wasteful as leaks inside. Check frequently and keep them drip-free.