Henrico County and other central Virginia localities are implementing voluntary water conservation beginning Wednesday, July 1, due to drought conditions in the region. See below for some general tips to conserve!
Home Conservation Tips
- Detect and repair leaks.
- Shorten your showers. A 5-minute shower also uses less water than a bath.
- Run full loads of laundry and dishwasher and use load size cycles if your machine allows.
- Plan ahead for meals and defrost frozen food in the refrigerator instead of using a running tap of water.
- Keep a pitcher of drinking water in your refrigerator instead of running the tap until cold.
- Use a refillable water bottle or designate one glass for drinking water each day to reduce dishes.
- Wash fruits and vegetables in a tub or pan of water instead of running water from the tap.
Landscaping & Outdoor Conservation Tips
- Turn off automated sprinkler systems. Water manually on alternating days during dusk or dawn. Native plants may need even less!
- If it does rain, use a rain barrel or a bucket to collect rainwater for watering plants.
- Limit watering lawns or grass. Set mower blades at least 2 inches high to improve moisture retention.
- Add mulch to any garden beds to help the soil retain moisture and reduce watering needs. Free mulch is available at Henrico’s public use areas.
- Avoid planting new plants that require extra water to establish.
- Fertilizers increase water consumption. Use the minimum amount of fertilizer or avoid use during this time.
- Leave the lawn clippings in your grass to cool the ground and hold in moisture.
- Use a broom instead of a hose to clean patios, sidewalks and driveways.
- Turn off ornamental fountains.
- Limit washing of vehicles and paved surfaces unless addressing public health and safety.
- Limit filling of swimming pools, and place a cover over swimming pools to reduce evaporation.
- Avoid recreational water toys that require a constant flow of water, such as a slip and slide. Henrico’s splash pads use recirculating water and will remain open during the request for voluntary conservation.
Additional Conservation Tips for Businesses
- Serve water to restaurant guests only when requested.
- Give hotel guests the option to reuse sheets and towels during multi-night stays.
- Educate employees on water conservation and encourage participation.
- Consider having a water audit conducted at your business.