There are many ways to save water outdoors that make a big impact. Here are some outdoor water conservation tips: Use a broom, not a hose, to clean your driveway, deck, or patio. Washing a sidewalk or driveway with a hose uses about 50 gallons of water every 5 minutes. Your water meter is an important conservation tool. It not only measures the amount of water you use, but can also tell you if there is a leak in your plumbing. Cover pools and hot tubs to reduce evaporation. You can save water simply by washing your car less. But when it does have to be cleaned, instead of hand-washing your car, you can save water AND reduce water pollution by taking it to a professional car wash, like a Sonoma Green Car Wash. Drought is here. Save water.