Wichita is still under drought restrictions. Here’s how to save even more water — indoors

Lindsay Smith
(Getty Images)

Wichita is going into the second month of Phase 2 drought response, which means Wichita water customers are restricted to watering their lawns only once a week to conserve water.

The restrictions are in response to the low water levels at Cheney Reservoir, which is where Wichita pulls its water from. Properties that use well water are excluded from the restrictions.

City officials said in late August that it will be at least Oct. 5 before the restrictions are reassessed.

According to the city’s website, the lake was at a 59.7% level as of Sept. 1. One year ago, it was 67.2% filled. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, the majority of Sedgwick County is experiencing a “moderate drought.”

Of course, watering the lawn is not the only use of water. Water usage inside the home also takes up a significant portion. If you’re wanting to go the extra mile and lessen your indoor water usage as well, what should you do?

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, 70% of the average family’s water usage happens indoors. According to the agency’s website, the average breakdown is:

  • Toilet: 26.7%

  • Clothes washer: 21.7%

  • Shower: 16.8%

  • Faucet: 15.7%

  • Leaks: 13.7%

  • Baths: 1.7%

  • Dishwashers: 1.4%

  • Other: 2.2%

Ways to save water usage during the drought

Watering your lawn once a week is not the only way to preserve your water during the historic drought.

Here are some ways to both preserve indoor water and save money on your water bill, from the EPA:

  • Get leaks fixed immediately.

  • Don’t leave water running when brushing teeth or shaving.

  • Cut down on time in the shower.

  • Use the dishwasher when it’s fully loaded.

  • Thaw food in the fridge overnight instead of using tap water.

  • Cool drinking water in the fridge instead of keeping the water running until cold.

  • Use the washer only when there’s a full load of laundry.

  • If the load isn’t full, use the correct amount of water instead of the highest setting.

The EPA also says it can save you money on your energy bill if you use cold water when washing clothes instead of warm.

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