Fresh, clean water is a limited resource. Keeping your water consumption down is good for your wallet and great for the planet. Conserving water during the summer requires some attention to detail, but it is possible. Here are a few easy ways to reduce your water consumption.
Install Aerators on Faucets
Attach aerators onto the ends of your faucets. They add air to the water as it comes out. With an aerator, you use less water, but it still has good pressure. You can purchase aerators at most hardware stores. Remove the current faucet end caps, and screw the aerator into place.
Water the Lawn Early in the Morning
Water your lawn early in the morning before the day’s heat sets in. You’ll conserve water because less will evaporate. The water will seep into the soil for the plants to use.
Choose Native Plants
Instead of planting exotic plants that need a lot of water, choose plants that are native to your area. They will survive with the natural rainfall, only requiring additional water during periods of extended drought. Adding a layer of mulch to your garden beds traps moisture in the soil, so your plants thrive with less irrigation.
Use a Rain Barrel for Conserving Water in Summer
Almost any large container can serve as a rain barrel. Some are designed with a tap at the bottom where the garden hose will be attached. Install the barrel at the bottom of the guttering downspout, and let it fill with rainwater. Use this water to irrigate your plants, water your lawn, wash patio furniture, and complete other outdoor tasks.
Wash Full Loads
Laundry piles up quickly in the summer, especially if you play sports or work outside. Washing full loads conserves water in summer because you’ll use the washer fewer times. If you only have a few items to wash, set them aside until you’ve accumulated more. Your family members might combine their laundry when previously they washed it separately.
Fixing Leaks Helps with Conserving Water in Summer
Check for leaks in the toilets and plumbing. If a toilet runs when it hasn’t been flushed, that is a sign of a leak. Damp areas or dark stains on the wall or floor are signs of a plumbing leak. Even a single dripping faucet wastes a lot of water over time. Hire a plumber to repair the leaking pipes, and the monthly water use will decrease.
Conserving water during the summer requires the whole family to participate. Talk to family members about making the changes above. Your water use will decrease, and so will the utility bill.
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