Summer is a season of sunshine, outdoor fun, and unfortunately, peak water usage. Between watering lawns, running sprinklers, filling pools, and taking more showers, households can use up to 50% more water than in cooler months. With drought conditions affecting many regions and increasing pressure on water systems, now is the perfect time to take action at home.
The good news? You don’t need expensive gadgets or major lifestyle changes to make a difference. Small adjustments can add up to big savings for your wallet and the planet. Here are some easy, effective water conservation tips to help you get started.
Indoors: Simple Ways to Save Water at Home
1. Fix Leaks Promptly
A dripping faucet or leaky toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water per month. Check all taps, showerheads, and toilets for signs of leakage and repair them promptly. Use food coloring in your toilet tank to check for silent leaks—if color appears in the bowl without flushing, it’s time to fix the flapper.
2. Install Low-Flow Fixtures
Low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets are widely available and easy to install. They can reduce water use by up to 60% without compromising performance.
3. Turn Off the Tap
Turn off the water while brushing your teeth, shaving, or scrubbing dishes. This simple habit can save several gallons of water per day.
4. Only Run Full Loads
Whether it’s your dishwasher or washing machine, only run them when full. Use the eco or water-saving mode if your appliance has one, and choose cold water washes when possible to save energy too.
Outdoors: Reduce Waste Without Sacrificing Your Landscape
1. Water Early or Late
Water your garden and lawn in the early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation. Avoid watering during the heat of the day when most of the moisture evaporates before it reaches the roots.
2. Use Drip Irrigation or Soaker Hoses
These systems deliver water slowly and directly to the base of plants, minimizing runoff and evaporation. They’re more efficient than overhead sprinklers, especially for flower beds, shrubs, and vegetable gardens.
3. Choose Drought-Tolerant Plants
Swap thirsty turf grass for native or drought-resistant plants. These species are better adapted to your climate, require less watering, and are generally easier to maintain.
4. Add Mulch
Mulching garden beds and around trees helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and reduce the need for frequent watering. Organic mulches like bark, straw, or compost also improve soil health over time.
Lawn Care: Rethink Your Green Space
1. Water Deeply, Not Daily
Water your lawn deeply and infrequently—about once or twice a week, depending on your climate. This encourages deeper root growth, making your lawn more drought-tolerant.
2. Adjust Your Mower Height
Keep your grass a bit longer during the summer (around 3 inches). Taller grass provides shade for the soil, reducing evaporation and helping roots retain moisture.
3. Sweep, Don’t Hose
Use a broom to clean driveways, sidewalks, and patios instead of hosing them down. It’s just as effective and can save gallons of water each time.
Bonus Tips for Saving Water
1. Collect Rainwater
Set up a rain barrel under your downspouts to collect water for outdoor use. It’s free, eco-friendly, and great for gardens.
2. Cover Pools When Not in Use
A pool cover reduces evaporation by up to 95%, cuts down on debris, and even helps retain heat—saving energy as well as water.
3. Educate Your Family
Make water conservation a family habit. Teach kids the importance of turning off taps, reporting leaks, and not wasting water during play.
Small Steps, Big Impact
Water is a precious resource—especially during the hot summer months. By adopting just a few of these practical tips, you can significantly cut your household’s water usage, lower your utility bills, and help preserve clean water for future generations.
Whether you’re adjusting your lawn care routine, upgrading a fixture, or simply turning off the tap, every drop counts. Make this summer your most water-wise yet!