1. Stop Leaks. Check appliances and outdoor systems such as sprinklers for leaks. Get to know your meter - it provides important information about consumption and leaks. Common leaks waste 10% of the water used in many homes.
2. Replace old toilets. Toilet-flushing is the top water user in the home. If you haven't replaced your toilets in 10 yeras or more, you'll benefit from the new high-efficiency models.
3. Buy an efficient clothes washer. Washers are the second-largest water users in the home. New "Energy Star" certified models may use 50% less wawter and energy per load.
4. Check out these two websites for even more suggestions: www.h2house.org, and www.parade.com.

Return to top of page.

The above chart of 2007 and 2008 water consumption data illustrates the effects of weather and lawn irrigation. Consumption during the “non-irrigation” months of November through April averages just less than 100,000,000 gallons per month. During the summer months, when lawn and garden irrigation peaks, the consumption almost doubles to 150,000,000 gallons and more.

History also shows that during a summer month with above normal rainfall, water consumption is greatly reduced.

  To encourage conservation of our unique water source, the Port Washington Water District has implemented procedures regarding the installation of underground irrigation systems.
  While underground irrigation systems provide convenience in maintaining landscaping, not all systems are designed or installed for maximum efficiency. We have all seen driveways and sidewalks getting a good soaking along with the flowers, shrubs and lawns. New systems using updated technology are often 50% more efficient than traditional systems.
  To insure that residents are installing the most efficient and water conserving underground systems, the District is working with an independent consulting firm to review all applications from installers before construction begins. Keesen Water Management reviews each application to be certain it meets the DistrictÕs Rules and Regulations for Operations of Underground Irrigation Systems, as well as providing more efficient alternatives to be considered.
  This service costs $100 per review and is included in the application fees paid by the installing firm. Thus, this additional conservation program will not impact the overall District Budget.
  According to Tal Vacchio, PWWD Superintendent "This input and protection has had a positive long-term impact on our efforts towards a more efficient usage of our water resources and minimize our customers year to year irrigation costs".

Return to top of page.

  Your PWWD has adopted year-round water use regulations to insure an adequate supply of quality water for all residents of the District. As summer approaches, this community conservation program is particularly relevant.
  Watering of lawns, shrubs, trees, plants, and vegetation of any type is limited to a maximum of two hours a day on alternate days. As the chart indicates, these days are determined by your street address: even numbered homes water on even numbered days, odd numbered homes water on odd numbered days.
  This schedule provides more than adequate irrigation...remember, a lawn requires just one inch of rain per week for adequate maintenance.
  Flushing and/or spraying public streets, sidewalks, or private driveways for any purpose is prohibited.

Swimming Pool Rules
  Before you contract for an in-ground pool or invest in an above-ground pool, check with your Water District.
  All pools require special permits and safety installations. All pools must be equipped with a recirculation and filtering system and a double check valve assembly to be installed at the meter on the incoming water service.
  The District office will be happy to provide you with a complete copy of the rules of installation and operation and the necessary applications.

Check Before Installing Automatic Underground Systems
  Your Water District has specific rules and regulations pertaining to the installation and usage of automatic underground irrigation systems. These rules are intended to permit the convenience of automatic irrigation while continuing the overall goal of conserving water resources.
  Anyone wishing to have an underground spinkler system installed must first obtain permission from the Port Washington Water District.
  Contractors and interested consumers should contact the District office at 767-0171 for an application for the installation of any new irrigation system. As a matter of interest, a backflow prevention device is required on all automatic underground systems.

AUTOMATIC SPRINKLERS....Watering Rules Apply
  Each spring, one of our important projects is to reset automatic sprinkler systems. The Port Washington Water District reminds everyone that the watering rules listed above apply to these systems. Be certain the time clock on your system is set properly... and the back-flow has been installed and certified. Back flow certification is required each year.

Return to top of page.

Remember, Fire Hydrants Save Lives, Summer & Winter
  Do not forget to keep fire hydrants clear of plants and shrubbery during summer months, and free from snow and ice all winter long. A blocked hydrant can cost firefighters precious time in an emergency.
  If you see a hydrant open or leaking please report it immediately to the District office at 516-767-0171.
  Remember NYS Vehicle Traffic Law requires no parking within 15 foot of either side of a fire hydrant.

  Have you noticed the flags installed on each fire hydrant? These are designed to assist fire fighters in locating hydrants during the winter when snowfall and plowing tend to cover the hydrants.

Return to top of page.