Summer is in full swing, and with the rising temperatures comes an increased demand for water. This can lead to higher water bills, but it doesn’t have to. By following a few simple tips, you can reduce your summer water use and save money on your water bill this summer.
We’ve put together several tips for saving water in summer that will help you keep your water bill low and your lawn and garden looking great. We’ll cover everything from adjusting your lawn care routine to installing water-efficient appliances.
Worried about your home’s plumbing system? Let the Comfortec Plumbing, Heating & Cooling team tackle any small plumbing issues this summer before they become bigger problems. Contact us today!
Water your lawn and garden wisely
During the summer months, it’s important to water your lawn and garden wisely to conserve water and save money on your summer water bill. Here are a few tips for watering your lawn and garden efficiently:
1. Water your lawn deeply and infrequently. This encourages deep roots and helps the grass better withstand drought conditions. Water your lawn for 30-40 minutes once or twice a week, rather than watering it for a shorter period of time every day.
2. Mow your lawn at a higher setting. Longer grass blades help shade the soil and reduce evaporation. Aim to mow your lawn at a height of 3-3.5 inches.
3. Use mulch to help retain moisture in the soil. Mulch can help reduce evaporation and prevent weeds from growing. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around your plants and trees.
4. Water your lawn in the morning or evening to reduce evaporation. The sun is less intense during these times, so less water will evaporate.
5. Use a rain gauge to measure how much water your lawn is getting. This will help you avoid overwatering and wasting water. Place a rain gauge in an open area of your lawn and check it regularly to see how much water your lawn is receiving.
By following these tips, you can water your lawn and garden efficiently and save water in summer and money this summer.
Take shorter showers
In addition to watering your lawn and garden wisely, there are several other ways you can save water in summer and save money on your water bill this summer.
One simple way is to take shorter showers. The average shower uses about 2.5 gallons of water per minute, so even a small reduction in shower time can add up to significant savings over time. To reduce your shower time, try setting a timer for yourself or singing your favorite song while you shower. You can also try taking showers instead of baths, as baths typically use more water.
Additionally, turn off the water while you soap up or shampoo your hair. This can help you save water in summer even more water without sacrificing your comfort. Finally, consider installing a low-flow shower head. Low-flow shower heads reduce the amount of water that comes out of the showerhead, which can help you save water in summer and money without sacrificing water pressure.
In addition to the water-saving benefits, taking shorter showers can also save you money on your energy bill. Heating water for showers can account for a significant portion of your energy use, so reducing your shower time can help you save energy and money.
Remember, every little bit counts when it comes to saving water in summer. By taking shorter showers and following the other tips in this article, you can make a big difference in your water and energy consumption this summer.
Install water-efficient appliances
When replacing old, inefficient appliances, consider installing WaterSense-certified models to significantly reduce water consumption and save money on your summer water bill. Look for low-flow shower heads and faucets, which can reduce water consumption without sacrificing water pressure. High-efficiency toilets can save water in summer up to 20% more water per flush compared to standard models. Upgrading to water-efficient washing machines and dishwashers can also make a big difference, as they use less water per cycle.
These modern appliances often come with efficient features like water-saving settings and sensors that adjust water usage based on the load size. By incorporating these efficient appliances into your home, you can reduce water consumption, save water in summer and enjoy lower water bills while preserving this valuable resource.
Fix dripping faucets
Every drop counts, especially during the summer when water use is at its peak. A common culprit of water waste in homes is dripping faucets. A single, dripping faucet can waste up to 20 gallons of water per day, which adds up to hundreds of gallons and dollars wasted over time. This can lead to a higher summer water bill.
Fixing a dripping faucet is relatively simple and can be done in a few minutes. The first step is to identify the source of the drip. Usually, it’s either a worn-out washer or a loose packing nut. If the washer needs replacing, turn off the water supply, remove the old washer, and insert a new one. If the packing nut is loose, simply tighten it with a wrench.
If these simple fixes don’t stop the drip, it’s best to call a professional plumber. They can diagnose the problem and perform any necessary repairs to ensure your faucet is watertight. By fixing dripping faucets, you can significantly reduce water consumption in the summer and save money on your water bill.
Use a rain barrel to collect rainwater
You can save money on your summer water bill and save water in summer by collecting rainwater in a rain barrel for outdoor use. A rain barrel works by capturing and storing rainwater that would otherwise be lost to runoff. Collected rainwater can be used for a variety of purposes, such as watering plants, washing your car, or even flushing toilets.
Setting up a rain barrel is relatively simple. Choose a location under a downspout where the barrel can easily collect rainwater. Place the barrel on a sturdy base, such as a concrete block or paver, to keep it from tipping over. You can connect multiple barrels together to increase your storage capacity. Be sure to cover the barrel to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.
Maintaining a rain barrel is also easy. Periodically check the barrel for debris and clean it out as needed. You should also empty the barrel completely before freezing temperatures arrive in the winter to prevent damage.
Conclusion
Is it time you have your home’s plumbing system checked out? Is there a minor problem you’ve been meaning to call about and need fixed during these months of high water use?
Call the pros at Comfortec Plumbing, Heating & Cooling for a comprehensive checkup of your home’s plumbing. Don’t let a minor problem cost you in the long run. Call 888-362-2106 today.