Water saving tips: Simple actions that make a difference

Calgary’s water restrictions take effect March 9, and are estimated to last for four weeks. UCalgary is taking steps to reduce water usage across campus and everyone is encouraged to save water where they can, 

It’s easier for everyone to do a little than for a few people to do a lot. You may think your efforts won’t make a difference, but when multiplied across a community, each of our small efforts adds up quickly. Below, we’ve got suggestions you can incorporate into your everyday life.  

Help spread the word

Not everyone could be aware of the current water restrictions. While those of us who are chronically online may be up to date, others might not be. Spread the word with your friends, classmates and family members. The more people who participate, the greater the collective impact. 

Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth

This is super simple, but it can make a big difference. Leaving the tap running when you’re brushing your teeth can waste up to 15 to 18 litres of water each time! The same goes for shaving or lathering your hands. Try to also get inthe habit of not turning your faucet on full-blast.  

Take one-song showers

Turn your shower into a timed challenge. Choose a song that’s three minutes or less and aim to finish before it ends. This gives you some extra time back in your day and makes saving water more fun. Reducing shower time is one of the most impactful ways to save water. Every minute you save in the shower can save up to eight litres of water! 

Here are a few song ideas to get you started: 

• Here Comes the Sun — The Beatles 
• APT. — Rosé and Bruno Mars
• Cruel Summer — Taylor Swift 
• Sunroof — Nicky Youre  

Wash only full loads of laundry and dishes

One cycle of a washing machine can use between 62 to 112 litres of water per cycle. To save on water (and alsoreduce your utilities!), wait to run your washing machine or dishwasher until you have a full load. Rewear clothes when possible and choose shorter wash cycles. In the short term, using disposable, compostable plates and utensils can minimize dishes and help reduce overall water use. Or, if it’s just you, you can even eat from the pot—no judgement here. 

Heat water in a kettle 

If you need hot water, use a kettle instead of running the tap until the water heats up. It’s faster, more energy efficientand avoids wasting litres of water down the drain. Don’t have a kettle? Boiling water on the stovetop isn’t as quick, but it still saves water. 

Recycle water for your plants 

What about your plant babies? Don’t worry — water used to wash rice or boil eggs can be reused for your plants. This makes the most of the water used in your kitchen, and it also contains nutrients for your plants. Just make sure to let the water cool first. 

Now the tough one: "If it's yellow, let it mellow. If it's brown, flush it down!"

This slogan has been used during droughts since the early 1970s to encourage water conservation. Yes, it’s a bit icky, but reducing unnecessary flushes can save a significant amount of water. Just leave the lid closed, and don’t think about it! Skipping three flushes can save about 30 litres of water. 

Our short-term efforts now can prevent larger problems later.

Using more water than what the city can supply can lead to reduced water supply for firefighting, strain on water treatment plants, low water pressure and potential city-wide boil water advisories.