They also stress aging drinking water and sewage treatment facilities beyond their capacities. In each of the past few years, wastewater treatment systems dumped an estimated 2.3 trillion gallons of inadequately treated sewage into U.S. coastal waters, destroying beaches, fisheries, and other marine life. We waste water both by practicing bad habits, like leaving the water running when we brush our teeth, and by using antiquated equipment not built with water conservation in mind. Bad habits can be difficult to change, but new ones can save thousands of gallons of water per year per person. Installing new water-saving equipment and small devices also can save significant amounts of water per household without requiring us to change our daily routines.
Many devices are inexpensive, available in local hardware stores, and easy to install.
By following a few simple steps, a typical family of four can save an astounding 50,000 to 100,000 gallons of water per year. For Every Room in the House Repair leaky faucets, indoors and out. One leaky faucet can use up to 4,000 gallons of water per month. Install faucet aerators. These inexpensive devices can reduce water use up to 60 percent, while maintaining a strong flow.