Ways to Conserve Water in Your Home
Smart-flush toilets: You can save enormous amounts of water by buying the right appliances. In the bathroom, choose smart-flush toilet systems, like the Double-Cyclone mechanism employed in the TOTO Drake® II 1G Two-Piece Toilet, pictured. The system uses two nozzles to siphon water in a centrifugal, cyclonic motion, eliminating the need for multiple flushes.
Harvest rainwater: If you're looking to make a big impact on your home's water consumption, consider a large-scale solution like rainwater harvesting. At this home in Carmel, California, the butterfly roof supports the collection of rainwater, which flows into hidden pumps at the notches of each roof that lead to concrete cisterns. During the summer, the cisterns passively release water into the meadow to irrigate the plants.
Native and drought-tolerant landscaping: By choosing plant breeds that are adapted to your local climate and require little water, you can all but eliminate water usage in your yard. Landscape architect Brennan Cox suggests how to get started. "Drought tolerance starts first with an acceptance of the flora that grows where you live," he says. "While planting doesn’t need to be dominated by natives, it should start with an understanding of what native plants can complement other drought-tolerant plants. This information comes from many trips to the nursery, books, and other informational sources."
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