• Flush only when necessary. Don't use your toilet for a garbage disposal and/or trash can. Consider installing a low-flow toilet (required for replacements and new installations).
• Install a water-saving displacement device. For older toilets, buy or make a device that won't harm your plumbing such as  a toilet dam or weighted plastic jug full of water. Be sure that installation does not interfere with operating parts. DO NOT use a brick -- it may disintegrate and cause problems.
• Check overflow pipes to be sure that water isn't draining. Request a leak detector kit from the WSSC Office of Communications or simply add dark food coloring to TANK water. DON'T FLUSH! Check water in TOILET BOWL 15-20 minutes later. Color in the toilet bowl means you have a leak.

Sinks

• Fill bowl with water instead of letting water run when you wash, brush teeth or shave.
• Repair leaks, attend to drips promptly.
• Install water saving devices. Try a faucet aerator to reduce amount of water used. 

Tub or Shower  

• Install water-saving devices. Use a low-flow shower head, flow restrictor or cut off valve (lets you shut off water at shower head while soaping up and shampooing without changing the faucet setting).  

• Economize. Do only full loads. Avoid using extra cycles. Choose a water-saving model.
• Repair leaks. Inspect all connections to make sure they are tight and dry.

Handwashing Dishes  

• Scrape dishes, but don't prerinse. Soak pots and pans before washing. Instead of running water continuously, fill wash and rinse basins with water. Use minimum amount of detergent.

Garbage Disposal 

• Use sink disposal unit sparingly,(but never use without running water) or use a garbage can or compost heap instead.

Food Preparation 

• Use a brush and bowl full of water to wash vegetables. Thaw frozen food in your refrigerator, not under running water. Cook vegetables with a minimum amount of water and save cooking water for soup stock.

Drinking Water 

• Instead of cooling water by running, keep a container of cold water in the refrigerator. Make only the amount of coffee, tea, etc. you expect to consume.

• Use the load selector to match water level to size of load. ( If no selector then only do full loads.) Presoak heavily soiled items. Always use minimum amount of detergent.
• Check faucets and hose connections for leaks. Repair or replace when necessary. Inspect pipes for pinhole leaks or leaking joints.
• If buying a new washer, purchase one with conservation features. Choose a washer with load size selector or variable water level control.