Summer's rising temperatures often coincide with rising outdoor water use, primarily due to an increase in lawn and landscape watering. While using water efficiently is important throughout the year, sometimes the timing of water use can make a big difference for community water supplies—and the water bill.
During the summer, household water usage typically spikes by 30% to 70% due to outdoor irrigation and heat. The Texas Water Development Board suggests ways to conserve water this summer.
-Water early or late. Calmer winds and cooler temperatures help reduce water loss from evaporation. Watering at night also deters disease and decay.
-Create a landscape of native or water-efficient plants. These plants are adapted to the area and use less water than non-native plants. Consult local nurseries for more information.
Additionally, raising lawn mower blades and having longer grass promotes deeper root growth, resulting in a more drought-resistant lawn, reduced evaporation, and fewer weeds.
-Follow local watering guidelines to help spread water use. These guidelines can be found on the City of Levelland website.
-Adjust in-ground sprinklers depending on rain, seasons and the water needs of the plants to be watered. According to Texas Water Newsroom, “the best type of sprinkler for lawns is one that produces large drops of water close to the ground.” Water only in the early morning (before 10 a.m.) or late evening to prevent rapid water loss to evaporation.
-Harvest rainwater to use for irrigation and other household needs. Rainwater is soft, low sodium and can be collected in large amounts for free.
-Cover swimming pools when not using them. When left uncovered, pool water evaporates and needs to be replaced. Covering the pool means it will not need to be refilled as much.
Another factor that may drive an increased water bill includes more frequent showering, extra laundry, and children being home which can quietly raise the baseline indoor usage.
It is also important to be observant. A sudden spike in the utility bill can indicate a hidden outdoor or plumbing leak, such as a running toilet or faulty sprinkler line.