With the summer heat finally roaring overhead, it’s important to remain conscious of the environment and our water usage. It’s easy to run the hose or sprinkler system during a heat wave, especially with children playing in the yard, but vital to not overdo it. You can save water this summer by following these ten tips:
Ten Tips
- Water early – By watering plants and gardens earlier in the day, you reduce the chances of evaporation and water waste. Before 6 AM is typically the best time if city regulations allow it.
- Rain sensor – A rain sensor is a worthwhile investment that shuts off sprinkler and water systems while it’s raining.
- Mower blades – If possible, raise the height of your lawn mower’s blades. Close-cut grass requires more water to thrive.
- Sweep – Instead of hosing down the driveway, which uses 5 gallons of water every minute, using a broom.
- Hose nozzle – When washing a vehicle, use a hose nozzle to turn off the water flow. This can save over 100 gallons per year alone.
- Inspect – Inspect your irrigation system thoroughly for leaks. A single leak can waste gallons of water each day.
- Collect rain – It is entirely possible to collect rain runoff using barrels carefully placed around your lawn. These barrels can then be used to water gardens and other plants.
- Mulching – If your lawn is well-cared for, mulching the yard can help prevent water evaporation. Mulch also helps suppress weed growth.
- Stop dribbling – If you use your hose often, chances are some water escapes afterward. A shut-off valve can help prevent excess water dribbling.
- Container gardens – If you have your heart set on gardening, consider using container gardens instead of lawn-bases setups. Containers help to avoid overwatering.
Contact Us
To prevent water waste, have your plumbing system checked thoroughly by a professional. Call Rick’s Plumbing for service at 203-874-6629 today!