FOUNTAINS

  • Trickling or cascading fountains lose less water to evaporation than ones that spray water into the air. Beginning with Stage 2 Restrictions, fountains with aerial emission or fall greater than four inches may not operate.
  • Only use fountains or other ornamental water features that recirculate water. This is required by the Water Conservation Code.

POOLS

  • Avoid using recreational water toys that need a constant flow of water.
  • Place children’s water toys on dry areas of the lawn.
  • To reduce water loss from splash-out, avoid diving, splashing, and water fights.

LEAK DETECTION & MAINTENANCE

  • Check your pool regularly for cracks and leaks. Use a grease pencil to mark the water level at the skimmer and check the mark 24 hours later. If the pool has lost more than ¼ inch of water, it may have a leak.
  • Use a pool cover to reduce evaporation, keep your pool cleaner, and reduce the need to add chemicals. Rebates for a new pool cover may be available from Austin Water.
  • If the pool/spa is heated, lower the water temperature a couple of degrees to reduce water loss from evaporation.
  • Surrounding the pool with shrubs or fences can help cut water loss from wind evaporation.
  • Refill the pool only when needed for water quality reasons. Maintaining proper chemical levels and adequate circulation time can help you avoid the need to drain it as often.
  • Filling the pool a few inches lower than usual can reduce the amount of water splashed out.
  • When topping off, use a hose timer to avoid overfilling.
  • Check and maintain pool auto fillers.
  • When cleaning the pool, use a pool vacuum that recycles water.
  • Backwash pool filters only when needed and consider manually cleaning the filter.