Water Conservation in the Bathroom

Toilets, The Silent Spenders

Many toilets have slow, silent leaks. As the tank’s water level drops, the toilet will briefly run to replace lost water. This may be very quick, quiet, or even silent. 

How to check for toilet leaks with a dye-test:

  1. Add food coloring (6-7 drops), or a dye tablet, to the tank.
  2. Wait 30 minutes, then check the bowl. 
  3. Check the bowl. Color will appear in the toilet bowl If the toilet flapper is leaking,
  4. Flush as soon as the test is complete, since food coloring may stain the tank.

Visit ToiletFlapper.org for a video tutorial on how to do a dye-test.

Toilet showcasing a dye testDid you know? A poorly sealing flapper can waste as much as 200 gallons of water per day.

Bathroom Water Saving Tips

  • When a toilet handle sticks in the flush position, requiring you to "jiggle the handle," the flapper is wide-open. Check that the chain is set to the correct length and assure smooth operation. Running toilets can waste over 200 gallons per hour. 
  • A toilet is not a trashcan. Dispose of tissues, insects and other similar waste in the trash bin rather than the toilet.
  • Turn off the water while shaving, washing your face, or brushing your teeth.
  • Install a displacement device such as a bag or bottle inside the toilet tank to cut down on the amount of water needed for each flush. 
  • Replace your shower head with a high-efficiency version. Look for the EPA WaterSense label for efficiency and performance. 
  • Take shorter showers. Save even more by briefly turning the water on to get wet; off to lather up; then on again to rinse. 
  • Catch excess water from your shower to water plants. The same technique can be used when washing dishes or vegetables in the sink.

Toilet Resources

Visit Water Conservation for additional tips to save water in and around the house.