Summer Plumbing Efficiency: Water Fun Without Waste
Water is precious, especially during a hot Durham Region summer. The kids are home from school, the plants need watering, and everyone enjoys cooling off in the pool. Using water efficiently is a sustainable way to enjoy the season and save money.
This guide to summer plumbing efficiency offers practical tips on getting the most out of your plumbing system and will help you conserve water and reduce your utility bills without missing out on any fun.
Understanding Your Home’s Water Usage
Keeping track of how much water you use is the first step toward managing your summer plumbing efficiency. Most water meters are easy to read and can show your household’s water consumption in real-time.
Identifying periods of high consumption can help you adjust activities like lawn watering or pool filling to more efficient times of the day. It can also help you identify changes in your water usage that might indicate leaks or other issues that might require a professional plumber.
Sprinkler Systems and Lawns
Watering the lawn can account for a large portion of your water usage. Try to do your watering early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. This helps you get more out of your water as less of it will evaporate.
For better water conservation, your lawn should be getting just what it needs, no more, no less. Installing a timer on your sprinkler system can also prevent wasteful overwatering and maintain your summer plumbing efficiency throughout the summer season.
Pools and Water Features
Pools and decorative water features are wonderful additions to any home but can be major water guzzlers if not managed properly. Regular maintenance, like checking for leaks and managing water levels, can prevent excessive water use. It’s also a good idea to choose a high-quality recirculating pump that reuses water with minimal loss.
Watering Your Garden
Vegetables fresh out of the garden always taste the best, but it’s important to be conscious of when and how you water your plants. Plumbing systems and sprinkles can be installed to take the work out of your hands and can be set on timers for better summer plumbing efficiency.
If you use your hose, water when the temperatures are cooler. Applying a layer of wood chips or other organic materials around the base of the plants can help the soil retain moisture and help you get the most out of your water.
Rainwater harvesting is a great way to give your garden what it needs without ever turning the tap. Collecting rainwater provides a free, eco-friendly water source, but to maintain the quality of the collected water, it’s important that you cover your containers. With a properly managed rainwater collection system, your garden can thrive without relying on municipal water supplies.
Washing Your Car
Washing your car in the driveway can waste a lot of water if you aren’t paying attention. A hose can use as much as 10 gallons per minute, so try using a bucket instead. If you do use a hose, invest in a nozzle with an automatic shut-off to help you control the flow of water.
Choosing biodegradable soaps is not only better for the environment but also safer for the ground and nearby plants. These soaps break down naturally and minimize harm to the ecosystem around your home.
Trust the Summer Plumbing Efficiency Experts
It’s important to make smart choices with your water use during the summer. By implementing our tips when you’re watering your garden or maintaining the pool, you can enjoy your time outside without wasting water. Remember, saving water helps your wallet and the environment.
The team at Caldwell Plumbing can maintain your plumbing system, fix any problems, and install new features that save water and cut down your bills. If you want expert help with your summer plumbing efficiency, contact us today!