Did you know that about 50 percent of your city's energy bill goes to pump and treat water, and then to clean it up again once it's been used. Guess who pays for it? Using water wisely not only conserves a valuable resource, it saves energy and money, too. Here are some ways to cut down on water usage. Lawn and garden watering is a big consumer. When you do your mid-day watering, as much as 30 percent just evaporates. Watering before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m. slows evaporation, saves water, saves energy (and tax dollars, too). Watering lawns in several short sessions is best. Three 10-minute soaks an hour apart allow moisture to be absorbed more effectively than one 30-minute session. Also, avoid watering on windy days, and don't water unless the lawn needs it. How to do you tell? Just walk across your lawn. If you leave footprints it's time to water. And, finally, remember to check and readjust automatic sprinklers for maximum efficiency. And that's the On The House tip for today.