Going Green
Water conservation tips for summer
Households throughout the U.S. will be using a considerable amount of water this summer. From filling up their pools to watering their lawns and gardens, homeowners nationwide are projected to use nearly a thousand gallons per day during summer, according to American Water.
To help you reduce the amount of water you use in and around your home this summer, AW has some tips you should carefully consider.
Though your area may go many days without rain, thus leaving your lawn dry, American Water maintains you should only water your lawn when absolutely necessary. The best way AW says you can tell if your lawn needs replenishing is to walk on the grass. If the grass pops back up after stepping on it, it doesn't need water, according to AW. If it doesn't, it's likely time to walk around with a canister of water for a once-over.
Also, American Water suggests watering your lawn in the early morning. According to the source, up to 30 percent of the water can be lost due to evaporation if you water your lawn during midday, when the day's temperature is at or near its peak.
If your area is experiencing drought-like conditions, AW says you may want to heighten your mower's cutting level. American Water states your lawn can become more tolerant of dry conditions if you keep the grass a little high, as doing so can keep some of the moisture on your lawn from escaping.
For your driveway, as well as patios and sidewalk areas around your home, American Water recommends using a broom instead of hosing down these areas. Additionally, when washing your car in your driveway, ditch the hose. Instead, the source suggests filling up a bucket with soapy water, as hoses can waste a substantial amount of water in a short period of time.
In your home, AW advises only using your dishwasher and clothes washer when they are full. Using them when they're only half full can lead to excessive and unnecessary water use, according to American Water.
Additionally, short showers can save a considerable amount of water, as well as only turning on the faucet intermittently when brushing your teeth.
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