Hot weather means we consume more water to stay hydrated and cool off, but increased water use leads to more expensive utility bills. Use these tips to conserve water during summer and lower the utility bill without sacrificing health or comfort. Here are some of the easiest ways to get started.
Cover the Swimming Pool to Conserve Water During Summer
A backyard swimming pool is a great way to stay cool on a hot summer day. However, filling and maintaining a pool will impact your water usage. To minimize how often you need to add water, always cover the pool when not in use. Pool covers limit evaporation and help keep the water clean.
Shorten Your Time in the Shower
While most showers need a few seconds to warm up, that rarely takes more than a minute. When conserving water, shorten your shower time as much as possible. Learning to cut just two minutes from your routine will save up to 1,750 gallons of water over a year. For even more savings, use a bucket to catch water in the shower while the temperature adjusts and use it to water your plants.
Water Early in the Day
Water plants, grass, and trees thoroughly first thing in the morning before the sun’s heat evaporates the moisture. Doing so means you will water less often, and the plants’ roots will better absorb moisture. Check for leaks before the season starts, whether you use a garden hose or irrigation system to water your lawn.
Swap Faucets and Fixtures for More Efficient Ones
Outdated plumbing fixtures are more prone to leak and more likely to waste water. Change the showerhead for a low-flow model that gives you the same shower pressure while using fewer gallons of water. Faucet aerators are another efficient way to maintain sufficient pressure and reduce water usage.
Incorporate Hardscaping
A lush and green landscape is beautiful but requires a lot of water to maintain. To start conserving water during the summer, integrate hardscaping features like walkways, patios, decks, and gazebos into your backyard. These make the yard beautiful and functional and don’t require much maintenance.
Conserve Water by Mulching Around Plants and Trees this Summer
Mulch shields the soil’s surface from the sun’s heat and locks in moisture close to plant roots. Organic mulches integrate more nutrient-rich material into the ground to help plants thrive. Adding mulch around the base of trees, shrubs, and plants is an excellent way to reduce water usage.
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