While the statewide water shortage warning issued in July was lifted a few weeks ago, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) recommended maintaining a “watch level” status.
This action was taken to encourage Hoosiers to continue conservation measures that will help recharge depleted water supplies that haven’t yet reached their full pre-drought levels even though most areas of the state actually had normal or above normal rainfall in August and September.
- U.S. Drought Monitor released October 16, 2012
The National Weather Service reports that while increased precipitation has improved present conditions, many water supply reservoirs and underground aquifers have not yet returned to their normal levels.
The U.S. Drought Monitor released on October 16, 2012 shows that while not currently under any water restrictions, most of Indiana is still rated as “abnormally dry” or facing “moderate drought” conditions.
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Water’s goal to reduce water usage by 5% at the “watch level” by encouraging residents to follow a variety of voluntary actions set forth in Indiana’s Water Shortage Plan published in July, 2009, which include:
- Find and fix water leaks. A leaking toilet can waste 200 gallons per day. Common sources of leaks include:
- Running toilets
- Steady faucet drips
- Home water treatment units
- Outdoor sprinkler systems
- Install water-efficient plumbing fixtures.
- A major water use inside the home is toilet flushing. A high-efficiency toilet (1.6 gallons or less per flush) can save 14,000 to 25,000 gallons of water per year.
- Install low-flow faucets, aerators and shower heads
- Consider purchasing a high efficiency washing machine, which can save fifty percent in laundry water and energy use.
- Eliminate wasteful water habits, such as running the dishwasher or clothes washer when only half full or allowing unused water to run; use the appropriate load size selection on the washing machine.
- When using water outdoors, control hose flow with an automatic shut-off nozzle.
- Wash the car with water from a bucket, or consider using a commercial car wash that recycles water.
- Reuse water for non-drinking purposes. Before pouring water down the drain, consider other uses for it, such as watering plants or garden.
For more information, download the complete report: Indiana’s Water Shortage Plan (PDF opens in new window)
If you need help with your water conservation efforts, give 3C Plumbing a call at (317) 850-5114. We can address any visible issues, repair or replace leaky appliances, fixtures or faucets, and find hidden leaks that may be wasting water and costing you money.
