Following two consecutive record dry winters, the SFPUC is asking its 2.4 million Bay Area customers to continue the voluntary conservation efforts that were effective in reducing water consumption by 13% overall last year. Cutbacks in water usage are essential to avoid mandatory consumption limits and rationing later this year. The SFPUC is again targeting a 10% overall reduction in water consumption this spring and summer.

Snowmelt from the Sierra Nevada mountain region is the primary Bay Area water source. 2007 was one of the driest winters on record, setting the stage for reduced water storage levels and possible first year drought conditions. Dry-winter conditions have continued in 2008. State hydrologists estimate precipitation in the Sierra will register at only 70% of normal for the year. March and April 2008 were among the driest in California’s recorded history.

Last year the SFPUC asked customers to curtail water consumption and you stepped up to the challenge – successfully avoiding water rationing. As spring temperatures rise and outdoor water use begins its seasonal peak, we’re asking for a continued commitment to conservation efforts.

The average residential usage for San Franciscans is 60 gallons per person each day. You can achieve at least a 10% reduction goal in as little as six gallons per day. Here are some simple tips to help put your household on track:

1. Turn off the faucet when you are brushing your teeth or doing the dishes. Save 2 gallons per minute.

2. Take shorter showers. Each minute you cut saves 2.5 gallons. Make sure you or your property owner have installed a high-efficiency showerhead.

3. Operate your clothes and dishwashers with full loads only, even if the machine has an adjustable load setting.

4. Use a broom to clean sidewalks, driveways and pavement instead of using a hose.

5. Reduce outdoor watering needs by planting species appropriate for the Bay Area’s dry climate.

6. Water during the cool part of the day. Reduce evaporation by watering lawns and plants only at night or early morning before dawn.

7. Detect leaks. Do you hear the toilet running or your faucet dripping? Contact the SFPUC for information on locating your water meter and detecting plumbing leaks using meter readings. Conducting a dye-test in toilet tanks can identify costly silent leaks. The SFPUC provides free toilet leak dye tablets.

8. Installing aerators on bathroom and kitchen sinks can reduce indoor water use by about 4%. The SFPUC provides free faucet aerators to San Francisco residents. Pickup in person at 1155 Market Street, San Francisco, Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

9. Replace your old toilet, the largest water user inside your home. New high-efficiency toilet models flush at 1.3 gallons or less compared to older models, which use up to 7 gallons per flush. San Francisco residents and SFPUC customers can receive a cash rebate of up to $125 for the purchase of select high-efficiency toilets.

10. Replace your clothes washer, the second largest water user in your home. High-efficiency clothes washers can reduce water and energy use by 40%. San Francisco residents and SFPUC customers can receive a cash rebate of up to $200 for the purchase of select high-efficiency clothes washers.

Need more help? SFPUC residential and commercial customers are eligible for a free Water-Wise House Call. SFPUC technicians will provide you with a comprehensive review of your property’s water usage, identifying conservation measures and undiscovered leaks. For more information or to schedule your appointment, contact the SFPUC Water Conservation Section at (415) 551-4730.