ANDERSON, SC - There are a number of ways to save water, and they all start with you. The City of Anderson and Electric City Utilities offers these water-saving tips. Check back every week for more ways to conserve water and possibly save money. For additional information or for a complete list of water conservation tips contact the City of Anderson/Electric City Utilities Water Operations Department at (864) 231-5230:

• Teach your children to turn the faucets off tightly after each use.
• Choose a water-efficient drip irrigation system for trees, shrubs and flowers. Watering at the roots is very effective but be careful not to over water.
• Consider using a rain barrel for supplemental irrigation purposes. According to the US EPA, it provides a free source of water that is free of chlorine and calcium and, if used, can save homeowners over 1,000 gallons of water during peak summer months.
• Water only as rapidly as the soil can absorb the water.
• Remember to weed your lawn and garden regularly. Weeds compete with other plants for nutrients, light, and water.
• If your shower can fill a one-gallon bucket in less than 20 seconds, then replace it with a water-efficient showerhead.