Use Water Wisely in the Kitchen

Run your dishwasher only when full.  Automatic dishwashers consume the most water in the kitchen, about 12 to 17 gallons per load.  Select dishwashing cycles that use the least number of washes and rinses.

Avoid unnecessary washing and rinsing before loading the dishwasher.  Most newer models don’t require prewashed dishes; just scrape them and let the machine do the washing.

Wash fruit and vegetables in a basin or stoppered sink, not under running water.

Thaw frozen food in your refrigerator, not under running water.

Keep a pitcher or drinking water in the refrigerator instead of running water from the tap until it gets cold.

Use your garbage disposal sparingly.