Studies show that an average American family of four may use about 400 gallons of water daily. However, water usage often doubles when summer arrives. Additional needs usually arise during the season. These include irrigation, cooling off, gardening, laundry, etc.
Although summer increases the need for water usage, it is necessary to conserve water for various reasons. Water conservation will offer you the continuous availability of portable freshwater for sanitation or drinking. Excessive water use will lead to scarcity, drought, environmental pollution, and climate changes. Overusing water also has financial implications as your water bills will keep increasing.
Taylor Street Property Management shares some valuable tips and explains how you can save a considerable amount of water during summer. The recommendations here will support an eco-friendly environment and minimize excessive expenses.
HOW TO CONSERVE WATER DURING SUMMER
WATER YOUR YARD AT THE APPROPRIATE TIME
In the morning or evening, evaporation is minimal, and the air is still. That is the best time to water your lawn because the moisture will stay in the soil. Avoid watering your garden at midday or during windy times. That is because the water will evaporate quickly before the earth soaks it.
It is advisable to use a drip irrigation system. The drip system works better than sprinklers because it sends a targeted amount of water directly to the plants. You may also want to replace thirsty tuft grasses with elegant drought-resistant plants. Doing so will serve you more money on water bills. Some water suppliers may even pay you for every square foot of grass you remove from your lawn.
USE DISHWASHERS
Dishwashers are beneficial in conserving water. A dishwasher uses about 3 gallons of water to wash dishes. If you decide to use your hands, you may use over 27 gallons of water to rinse similar numbers of plates. It is advisable to install a new energy star-rated dishwasher in your kitchen.
VISIT THE CARWASH
Commercial car washes have equipment that helps to minimize water use when washing cars. In addition, the water may not be as fresh as the water you will use at home. They use about 40 or fewer gallons of water to wash your car. But you will use up to 100 or more gallons of freshwater if you do it at home. That is in addition to the time and energy you will spend on doing it yourself.
MAINTAIN YOUR PLUMBING SYSTEM
Poor maintenance of the plumbing system leads to leaks and water wastage. A silent or slow leak of your plumbing fixture can waste up to 100 gallons of water every day. Even when it appears as a drip, a dripping faucet wastes about 2700 gallons daily.
It would be better to inspect your plumbing system for leaks. Repair or replace any faulty fixture. Where you experience difficulty locating the leaks, you may hire a professional plumber.
UPGRADE YOUR BATHROOM AND KITCHEN FIXTURES
Eco-friendly bathroom and kitchen fixtures will help conserve water in your home during the summer. It would be best to consider upgrading to low-flush toilets, low-flow showerheads, and eco-friendly faucets. Doing these will reduce your water wastage by up to 75%.
CONSERVE WATER IN THE BATHROOM
You can conserve water wastage while using the bathroom. Some creative ways to do this include:
- Spend less time under the shower.
- Turn off the shower while soaping or shaving.
- Shut off the water when brushing your teeth.
- Capture bathwater and reuse it to water the garden (only do it if the shampoo or soap is safe for plants)
- Cover your pool
Covering the pool while not in use is beneficial. During summer, the hot sun causes pool water to evaporate. But if you cover your pool, it will retain water and prevent evaporation. As a result, there will be a lesser need to top up the pool with water.
DO LAUNDRY WITH CAUTION
You can also save water during your laundry. To do this, only use your laundry machine when you have a full load. It is always advisable to select the appropriate load size for your washing machine. Avoid setting the washing machine on a permanent press. In addition, it is also beneficial to service your washing machine for optimum performance and minimal water usage.
COLLECT RAINWATER
Rainwater will provide an additional source of water for home use. You can install a rain barrel to collect the water from your roof and gutter’s downspout. The rainwater can be helpful in your garden or while washing your cars.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Conserving water has several benefits. You may qualify for rebates if you engage in water-saving practices. Plumbers can also suggest other innovative methods that will help you preserve water.
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