What’s your favorite way to stay cool in the summer? Running through the sprinkler in the backyard? Enjoying a cool drink? Maybe going for a dip in your pool?
All of these activities require water. Do you have a garden that you take pride in? Chances are you are diligent about providing it with enough hydration.
Given the temperature of the summer months, it goes without saying that you have an extra need in your household for water.
That means you need to step up your focus on water conservation so that you don’t waste water unnecessarily. Here are some helpful tips to help keep your conservation efforts on track.
Cut Water Waste so That you can Have fun
Have fun and keep your garden green with a clear conscience by reducing waste elsewhere. One of the biggest sources of water waste at home is plumbing leaks.
Get in the habit of looking for signs of plumbing leaks, like pooling water, sounds of running water even when turned off, a musty odor, mold growth or an increase in your water bills that you can’t explain.
Open cabinet doors under sinks and check for moisture on pipes. Look for leaky faucets and other plumbing fixtures around the house. Get them fixed right away and conserve water.
Lawn and Garden Water Use Tips
Do you have any fountains or decorations in your garden that use water? Do you really need them? You’d be surprised at how much water they actually use.
Don’t let your sprinkler be a source of water waste. Don’t water the driveway or sidewalk. Only water your lawn and garden when needed and do so early in the morning or later at night when less water will evaporate.
Hoses can crack over time. Inspect for decay and replace as needed. Also check out that hoses fit snugly into hose bibs. This is a common spot for leaks.
If you have an irrigation system, make sure that there are no leaks. Keep an eye out for pooling water.
Summer Fun
What better way to while away the afternoon than cooling down with some outdoor play. It’s even better if it can help you reduce your overall water use.
Place your sprinkler on an area of your lawn that already needs watering. You can make it even more fun by placing a pool noodle with holes punched in it over top of the sprinkler.
You can also fashion a “water park” by creating various shapes with holes punched through out of PVC pipes.
