Energy Action month: saving water starts with you

  • Published
  • By the 48th Civil Engineer Squadron energy team
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  Potable water is water which is fit for consumption by humans and animals. Though often taken for granted, access to potable water is crucial for survival and necessary for our mission. Whether considering the price to purchase potable water or calculating the costs associated with production, it quickly becomes clear that water is an expensive, precious resource.

Every citizen in our community has a part to play in water conservation. Water saving initiatives will not only positively impact our ecological relationship with water sources, but will also result in a significant reduction of utility bills. Common sense and an active concern to save water will markedly reduce consumption without sacrificing cleanliness or interfering with your lifestyle. 

Did you know?

· A water faucet left running can use up to 20 gallons of water while you shave, 10 gallons while you brush your teeth, and two gallons while you wash your hands.
· A continuous shower requires up to 12 gallons per minute, and a full bathtub uses 36 gallons. Wetting down, soaping up and rinsing off rapidly uses only four gallons. 
· Automatic dishwashers use up to 16 gallons of water; washing dishes by hand in a sink or dishpan requires only five gallons.

Make a Change!

· Take shorter showers. Run water only for wetting down and rinsing. Put a bucket in the shower and collect water while it is warming for use on potted plants.
· Turn off the water when shaving, brushing teeth or soaping hands. 
· Run only full loads in the washing machine; this can save up to 600 gallons a month.  
· Wash dishes by hand in a sink or a dishpan. Run only full loads in the dishwasher, and minimize rinsing beforehand.
· Thaw frozen foods in the refrigerator rather than a sink full of water. Wash your produce in the sink or a pan that is filled with water instead of running water from the tap. 
· Listen for dripping faucets and toilets. Stopping a leak can save 500 gallons a month.
· Don't use the toilet as a trashcan! Toss your facial tissues in the bin. 
· Fill a bucket with soapy water and rinse quickly with a hose when washing vehicles.

By empowering change at work, at home, and everywhere in between, the results will be real and measurable!  Know the name of your facility manager, and contact them if you notice leaks.

Keep an eye out throughout October for more energy conservation tips and events. If you have questions, comments or suggestions, contact the base energy manager at 226-5105.