Lafayette Parish Waterworks
District South

Inside the Home: Smart Habits & Upgrades

• Upgrade Your Hardware: Install low-flow showerheads and aerated faucets. These devices can reduce water consumption by up to 40%.

• Mind the Tap: Leaving the water running while brushing your teeth can waste more than 5 gallons of water per day. Remember to turn off the tap while brushing.

• Maximize Every Load: Wait until you have a full load of laundry or dishes before running your washing machine or dishwasher. Energy Star and WaterSense rated appliances can provide additional savings.

• Stop the Leaks: Repair dripping faucets both inside and outside the home. Even a small drip can increase your monthly water bill over time.

Outdoor Maintenance & Landscaping

• Clean with a Broom: Sweep away debris with a broom rather than using a water hose to clean driveways, patios, and sidewalks.

• Wash Cars Wisely: When washing your vehicle, turn off the hose or use a shutoff nozzle when not actively rinsing. A running hose can use between 9 and 17 gallons of water per minute.

• Use Mulch: Applying bark mulch around flower beds, trees, and gardens helps retain moisture and reduces the need for frequent watering.

• Harvest the Rain: Rain barrels are an excellent way to collect non-chlorinated rainwater for landscaping and plants.

Seasonal Watering & Conservation Guidelines

Know the Schedule

From May 1 through September 30, Lafayette water conservation guidelines are in effect:

• Even-numbered houses: Water on Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday.
• Odd-numbered houses: Water on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

• Watch the Clock: Water lawns and landscaping during the evening or early morning hours. Watering during the daytime increases evaporation and reduces efficiency.

• Avoid Overwatering: Most lawns only require approximately 1 inch of water per week.

• Inspect Irrigation Systems: Regularly check outdoor faucets, sprinkler systems, and hoses for leaks or damage.

Before the Storm

• Store bottled water and fill clean containers with drinking water in advance of the storm.

• Keep at least a three-day supply of water for each member of your household.

• Locate and label your home’s main water shut-off valve in case emergency shutoff is necessary.

• Charge phones, backup batteries, and emergency devices before the storm arrives.

• Secure outdoor furniture, hoses, and loose objects that could become hazardous during high winds.

• Review your insurance policies and keep important documents in a waterproof container.

Protect Your Plumbing & Water System

• Inspect your home for leaks or damaged pipes before severe weather arrives.

• Turn off irrigation systems during and after heavy rainfall to reduce unnecessary water usage.

• If flooding occurs, avoid contact with standing water near water meters or utility equipment.

• Never attempt to repair damaged water lines yourself. Contact LPWDS to report suspected water main breaks or utility damage.

Water Safety After a Storm

• If a boil advisory is issued, boil water for at least one minute before drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, or preparing food.

• Discard any ice made before a boil advisory was issued.

• Use caution if operating generators. Never place generators indoors or near open windows.

• Check for updates from LPWDS and local emergency officials regarding water service restoration and safety notices.

Emergency Supply Checklist

• Bottled water

• Flashlights and batteries

• First aid kit

• Non-perishable food

• Prescription medications

• Portable phone chargers

• Battery-powered radio

• Important documents in waterproof containers