Washington Township Municipal Utility Authority Morris NJ

Water Conservation

Though the WTMUA is exploring for new well sites in anticipation of being able to provide more water during the high demand summer months, we and all of our customers must be aware that water is a commodity that has a finite quantity. If, as a community, we use too much water, we will eventually run out of places to drill. Even before we come to such an end point, we must recognize that there are benefits to conserving water every day. Some of the environmental benefits that are aided by water efficiency include:

  • Reduced need to construct additional energy consuming water and wastewater treatment facilities.
  • Efficient water use can also reduce the amount of energy needed. According to the US EPA, if you replaced an older toilet with a new WaterSense labeled toilet you can save 4,000 gallons per year.
    • Saving water is to the benefit of all. Ways we can all save water to lessen the impact on the water supply include:
  • Using Efficient Watering Methods. Trickle irrigation and drip irrigation systems help reduce water use and meet the needs of plants. With these methods, very small amounts of water are supplied to the base of the plants. Since the water is applied directly to the soil, rather than onto the plant, evaporation is reduced. The water is also placed where it will do the most good.
  • Water your lawn only when it needs it. Step on your grass. If it springs back, when you lift your foot, it doesn't need water. Set sprinklers for more days between watering. Better yet, especially in times of drought, water with a hose. Best of all, convert your lawn to native plants.
  • Fix leaky faucets and toilets. You could save 20,000 to 50,000 gallons per bill cycle.
  • Don't run the hose while washing your car. Use a bucket of water and a quick hose rinse at the end. Always use a hose with an automatic shut off.
  • Install water-saving shower heads or flow restrictors. Saves 500 to 800 gallons per month...

Watering Your Lawn

Outdoor water use is the greatest draw on the water supply system. Lawn sprinkling is the largest portion of the outdoor use quantity. Good, constructive tips for conserving water used on the landscape as well as other timely conservation information can be found at the Earth 911 web site.

Leak Detection Tips

A helpful guide for locating indoor and outdoor water leaks.

Fix That Leaky Faucet

A little drip can cost you a lot. The chart below shows the amount of water an unrepaired leak can send down the drain (and add to your water bill).

Unrepaired Leaks can be Costly