It’s easy to feel like water is everywhere. Water is part of our daily routine, making it easy to overlook the vast amount we use in everyday activities. Making a cup of coffee, cooking meals, washing clothes, and more – they all need water. But if everyone treats water as an endless resource, it can directly impact Southern California’s water supply. Every drop of water counts, which is why conservation is crucial.
When communities are mindful of how each member uses water, together we can make a significant impact on preserving this precious resource for our region’s future.
Tap Water and the Regional Water Supply
Every time the public turns on their faucet, high quality tap water is delivered from Southern California’s complex water system. This water comes from a blend of local groundwater, rivers, reservoirs, and imported water. Choosing tap water is a better alternative than buying bottled water because it’s often more affordable, minimizes environmental impacts, and is more convenient.
Tap water does a lot of heavy lifting for communities, but it’s important to remember that our water supply is limited and must be carefully managed. The more water we use, the more water needs to be treated and tested. This can strain reservoirs and groundwater basins, increasing reliance on imported water that costs money.
Tips to Conserve Water
Your SoCal Tap Water member agencies operate cutting-edge technology and infrastructure to secure the regional water supply. You can support our efforts at home with these water conservation tips.
- Bathroom: Whether you’re brushing those pearly whites or washing your hands, turn off the water so no water goes to waste. Shorten your showers by a few minutes, every second makes a difference.
- Kitchen: Did you know that using a dishwasher can conserve more water than washing dishes by hand in the sink? That’s because the dishwasher prevents water running during dish scrubbing.
- Laundry room: Do laundry with full loads and cold water to save on energy and water.
- Outdoor: Do a weekly leak check – the silent culprit of water loss. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), household leaks account for about one trillion gallons of water each year across the nation. A smart or drip irrigation system can help control leakage amounts.
Bonus tip: If you’re replacing your dishwasher or clothing washer, use certified water efficiency models like ENERGY STAR.
Your water conservation efforts go a long way. Even the smallest water use changes make the biggest impact when everyone does it together.
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