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.
