Water conservation tips
B.C. is experiencing severe drought conditions. Click here to learn about the Province's response to severe drought, the current drought conditions in your area, and what you can do.
Water conservation is everyone's responsibility, especially during drought. By conserving water, you can help to protect our natural resources, and you may save money too.
Visit your local government or First Nation’s website for information about water conservation and restrictions specific to your area.
On this page:
Indoor water conservation tips
Making simple changes can reduce your water usage around your home:
- Keep showers to five minutes or less
- If washing dishes by hand, fill the sink rather than let the water run freely
- Instead of running the tap, keep a jug of cool water in the fridge
- Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth or shaving
- Regularly check your home for leaks. Undetected leaks in your home can waster many liters of water each year
- Run full loads of laundry and full loads in the dishwasher
Outdoor water conservation tips
Reduce the use of water by following these alternatives for outdoor activities:
- Water lawns sparingly. Lawns only need about 2.5 cm (or 1 inch) of water per week
- Water in the morning or evening to reduce evaporation
- Clean the driveway with a broom instead of a hose
- Check for leaks in outdoor pipes, faucets, and hoses
- Talk to a local nursery or garden supplies centre about drought tolerant plants
- Use rain barrels to collect rainwater for outdoor plant use
- If you have a swimming pool, consider a water-saving pool filter
Videos
Water conservation videos on YouTube.
- Water Conservation 1: Why?
- Water Conservation 2: Water Conservation Outdoors
- Water Conservation 3: Rainwater Harvesting
- Water Conservation 4: Water Treatment & Reuse
The full playlist is available at BC Adapts: Water Conservation Videos.
