City of Tigard > City Hall > Departments > Water > Water Conservation

Frequently Asked Questions

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Why should I conserve water?
There are many great reasons to save water!

		Population growth means larger water demand. The City of Tigard has grown from 14,800 in 1980 to 42,385 in 2000.
		Saving water now helps secure clean potable water for our future.
		Conservation protects fish such as salmon and all other kinds of wildlife.
		Conservation delays the need to build new infrastructure for water supplies.

What should I do if I suspect my toilet is leaking?
Look and listen for leaks in household plumbing and in your toilets. Put a few drops of food coloring in the tank of your toilet. If the color appears in the bowl without having flushed, you have a leak in the flapper or valve.

When should I aerate my lawn?
Aeration is great for you lawn because it helps roots grow more deeply and allows water and fertilizers to penetrate to the roots where they are needed. Aerate once or twice a year in the spring or fall before fertilizing.

How many inches of water does my lawn need a week?
Water your lawn about 1" a week, including rain, in temperatures below 85 degrees. Hotter temperatures require 1 ½" of water per week for landscaping. As an easy rule-of-thumb, you can figure out how long it will take to get one inch of water by using the "Tuna Can Trick."

Should I consider installing a low-flush toilet?
Yes, toilets account for 40% of indoor water use. Conventional toilets use 3.5 to 5 gallons of water per flush. Low-flush toilets use only 1.6 gallons per flush!