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Water Saving Tips

Combing over a receding hairline takes patience and skill. Thankfully, using less water from our receding water sources is far simpler. Here are some easy things you can do at home and work to make our water last:

  1. Use 5, 10 or even 15 percent less water. Read your latest utility bill and note how many gallons you consumed. Simply multiply the number of gallons by .05, .10 or .15—that’s your water-saving goal. For example, 8,000 gallons X .10 = 800 gallons. If your goal is to save 10 percent, that's all you need to save for that month. You can easily save that much by fixing a leak or implementing some of these simple tips.

  2. Check with your local water utility for watering recommendations for your area. Some areas require as little as 1 inch every seven days. Experts recommend watering your lawn deeply and infrequently to promote a strong root system.

  3. Operate your in-ground sprinkler system manually—don’t use the timer. Check sprinkler systems frequently for directional aim and broken heads to prevent watering driveways, sidewalks and streets.

  4. If you own a pool, pay close attention to the water level. If it varies drastically from day to day, you probably have a leak and need it serviced immediately. Swimming pools may not be drained and refilled this summer except to replace normal water loss.

  5. Use plenty of mulch in your beds—especially during a drought. Terrains vary across the state, so consult an expert at your local nursery or home improvement store on the optimal amount and type of mulch needed in your area.

  6. Choose “water wise” plants like lantana, salvia and Mexican sage. Ask your local nursery or landscape professional for advice.

  7. Raise your lawnmower blade and cut grass to a height of 3 inches—this shades the soil, which reduces evaporation, and allows roots to grow deeper.

  8. Check for leaks in taps, pipes and hoses. It’s an easy way to save water. One slow drip can waste 20 gallons of water daily (7,000 gallons per year).

  9. Use soaker hoses instead of sprinklers to water trees, shrubs and beds more efficiently.

It may not seem like much, but every time you practice one of these easy tips, you’re not only using water more efficiently and wisely, you’re helping Texas water supplies last.