The Solution
There are many simple ways to reduce water use at a school. Most of the actual water savings from the following suggestions are small but over the course of a school year, the savings are significant. - Install low volume flush valves on toilets, automatic flush valves for urinals, waterless urinals, and motion sensor faucets.
- During renovations and new addition projects at older schools, convert toilets from standard to low volume flush (about 1.2 gallons per flush) and install waterless urinals .
The easiest device to install and the least expensive is the low-flow aerator, each one costing $5-$10 depending on size and location. - Motion sensor faucets can be installed to save water because their automatic shutoff allows water use only when necessary.
- Dual flush toilets allow the option to lift up the handle to flush liquid waste or push down for a normal flush containing solid waste, saving approximately 30 percent of water used in a normal flush (when used properly). These toilets range from $250- $300.
For kitchen areas:
- Replace standard pre-rinse sprayers with low-flow pre-rinse sprayer.
- Sweep floors and walkways instead of spraying if sanitation permits.
- Change from reusable plates and utensils to disposable.
Standard pre-rinse sprayers use approximately two to six gallons of water per minute, while the newly designed sprayers use slightly more than one gallon per minute. The cost of low flow sprayers ranges from $100-$150.
For other areas throughout the school:
- Install a rainwater harvesting system.
- Replace real turf with artificial turf on athletic field.
- Monitor increases in water usage to avoid leaks.
Rainwater harvesting systems are a new approach to saving water. These systems entail a water collection system on the roof of your school and a underground storage unit. The water is recycled by using the collected roof water for flushing toilets. If a small treatment system is feasable, a greywater irrigation system can be implemented for watering landscaping. This is not only an opportunity for water conservation, but also for education opportunity for students.
Installing artificial turf has a high capital cost but will result in future savings associated with water usage and maintenance. Rebates and Incentives Many water agencies offer rebates to upgrade water-using appliances. If you're in San Francisco check-out the following:
SFPUC
The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission offers information to help you save water, and money. Click here to see what rebates and incentives are available.
EBMUD
East Bay Municipal Utility District offers a variety of conservation services and programs for its customers. Click here to view information regarding water-saving rebates.
PG&E
Pacific Gas and Electric Company offers rebates for replacing washing machines and dishwashers with energy efficient and water saving models. Visit their website's rebates section for more information. | 
