Summer months in Texas are not only typically very hot, but also very dry. Water districts have varying degrees or “stages” of water restriction protocols to combat this.
It falls on each one of us to help conserve water. Here are some things that can help:
Outside:
- Water before 10am and after 6pm to minimize evaporation (are as directed by your municipality
- Run your sprinklers in short cycles to help better absorb water and reduce runoff
- Check your sprinkler heads regularly to make sure they are spraying the right areas (i.e. not sidewalks and driveways!)
- Raise your mower blade height during the summer
- Check outside spigots for leaks (a drip of one drop per second can waste over 3,000 gallons per year)
Inside:
- Install low flow fixtures like faucets, toilets, and showerheads. Did you know that you can install a low-flow aerator in most bathroom sink faucets for only a few dollars and a couple minutes of time?
- Dishwashers use less water than washing by hand (for the same number of dishes). Only run with full loads.
- Like for the outdoor spigots, ensure you sink faucets shutoff completely and don’t drip
- Turn off the water while you shave and brush your teeth
- Invest in an efficient washing machine. Front loaders use significantly less water than top loading washing machines