Plan ahead on thawing frozen food. When possible, don't use running water to thaw meat or other frozen foods. Defrost food overnight in the refrigerator, or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Chill out! Store a pitcher of drinking water in the refrigerator.
Cooking With Water
Slow the flow! Check that your faucet has an aerator providing good pressure while reducing water usage.
Installing an instant, in-line water heater runs hot water quickly. No more waiting on the faucet for hot water.
Water heaters are a major part of a typical home energy bill. Using less hot water could also save energy.
Clean Up
After a meal, scrape plates over the trashcan instead of pre-rinsing. This will also keep excess fats, oils, and grease out of the pipes.
Start a compost pile instead of throwing away excess food. Rich organic compost is great for the garden, Get more information on composting from UF-IFAS
Load 'em up! Operate dishwashers when they are fully loaded. When full, dishwashers can actually be more efficient than hand-washing.
Washing dishes by hand, fill one sink or basin with soapy water. Rinse under a slow-moving stream from the faucet.
Remember to look for the EPA WaterSense label when shopping for new appliances.
Visit Water Conservation for additional tips to save water in and around the house.