Essential Water Conservation Tips for the Upcoming Hot Summer Months

Essential Tips for Water Conservation This Summer

As we brace for an anticipated hot and dry summer, American Water, a leading regulated water and wastewater utility in the United States, is urging everyone to take proactive steps towards water conservation. Cheryl Norton, the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at American Water, highlights that the rising temperatures and dry conditions tend to increase water demand significantly.

The good news is that simple changes in our daily routines can contribute immensely to safeguarding this vital resource. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, about 50% of the water used outdoors is wasted, signaling a critical need for greater mindfulness in our water usage.

To help ensure that high-quality water remains available for future generations, here are some practical water-saving strategies:

1. Water Early or Late: It is best to water your plants either early in the morning or later in the evening. Watering during these times significantly reduces evaporation, which can cause up to 30% of water loss when done during midday hours.
2. Collect Rainwater: Set up rain barrels to collect rainwater for irrigating outdoor plants and gardens. This not only promotes conservation but also utilizes a natural resource at no cost.
3. Inspect Sprinkler Heads: Ensure that your sprinklers are positioned to water only plants and gardens and not driveways or sidewalks. Minor adjustments can lead to substantial savings in water usage.
4. Broom Over Hose: Instead of using a hose to clean patios, driveways, and sidewalks, opt for a broom. This small change can save a significant amount of water.
5. Mulch Your Garden: Applying a two to three-inch layer of mulch around garden beds helps to retain moisture and suppress weed growth, thus requiring less watering.
6. Mower Blade Height: Raise the height of your mower blades; keeping grass between 2.5 to 3.5 inches tall will make it more drought-resistant and healthier overall.
7. Leak Checks: Regularly check for leaks in your home. Even small leaks can lead to the waste of thousands of gallons annually, with some homes losing 90 gallons or more daily due to undetected leaks.

For American Water customers, now is the perfect time to monitor your water usage effectively. Utilize the