Summer is the season of backyard barbecues, sprinkler-filled playdays, and fresh garden growth. And while we’re soaking up every sunny moment, that increased activity can lead to an unexpected spike in water usage. From pool fills to daily watering, everyone ends up reaching for the hose more often. That’s why learning ways to reduce your water bill this summer matters.
We’ll walk through smart, practical tips to decrease your water bill this summer. They’re effective methods you can put into action straight away, and they’ll help you understand how to reduce your water bill this summer with ease.
Why Is Water Usage Higher in Summer?
Understanding why water usage is higher in summer is the first step toward keeping your costs in check. With temperatures rising, your lawn and plants need more frequent watering. Evaporation also happens faster in the heat, which means more water is lost before it even reaches the roots.
More time outdoors also leads to extra showers, more laundry, and frequent use of garden hoses or irrigation systems. If you’re noticing your bill climbing, it helps to realize that these seasonal habits are a big part of the reason why water usage is higher in summer. Being mindful of these patterns makes it easier to change what you can control.
Tip 1: Fix Leaks Early
Leaks might seem minor, but they can lead to serious water waste over time. A dripping faucet, a running toilet, or a leak in your irrigation system can waste gallons of water every single day. These issues often go unnoticed because they’re easy to ignore, but they add up quickly on your bill.
If you’re not sure how to spot leaks, start by listening for running water in quiet rooms or checking for soft spots in the lawn where underground pipes might be leaking. You can also monitor your water meter before and after a two-hour period where no water is used. If the reading changes, you probably have a leak.
At Environment Masters, our local plumbers in Jackson can help you track down and repair leaks. Professional help is especially useful for harder-to-find issues or anything involving underground pipes.
Tip 2: Switch to Water-Saving Fixtures
Upgrading your fixtures is one of the most reliable ways to reduce your water bill this summer. Many older toilets, showerheads, and faucets use more water than necessary. By installing modern, efficient models, you can save money without changing your daily routines.
Dual Flush Toilets
A dual flush toilet lets you choose between a low and high volume flush. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in how much water your household uses each day.
Low-Flow Showerheads and Faucets
These fixtures are designed to use less water without lowering water pressure. You’ll still enjoy your shower, but with less water going down the drain.
Efficient Appliances
If you’re ready for a bigger upgrade, look for Energy Star-rated dishwashers and washing machines. These models use less water and energy while still getting the job done.
Efficient fixtures are an upfront investment that pays off over time. If you’re looking for tips to decrease your water bill this summer without changing your daily habits too much, don’t overlook this one.
Tip 3: Improve Your Outdoor Watering Habits
Your lawn and garden might be some of the biggest water users in your home, especially during the warmer months. That’s because evaporation and heat make plants thirstier, and automatic sprinklers may run more often than necessary. Improving how and when you water can go a long way in cutting costs.
Water Early in the Morning
Watering your lawn or garden in the early morning helps reduce water loss due to evaporation. The cooler weather allows more water to soak into the soil, where it can actually benefit your plants.
Try Drip Irrigation
Drip irrigation delivers water directly to the roots of your plants, which reduces waste and keeps the soil moisture levels more stable. You can also use soaker hoses in flower beds or vegetable gardens for similar benefits.
Add Mulch
Adding mulch around your plants helps the soil retain moisture and keeps the roots cool. It’s a low-cost addition to your garden that has long-lasting effects on water conservation.
Consider Xeriscaping
If you’re thinking about updating your landscaping, xeriscaping is a great choice. It involves using drought-resistant plants that require far less water than traditional lawns.
These are just a few ways to reduce your water bill this summer while keeping your yard healthy and green.
Tip 4: Adjust Your Everyday Habits Indoors
Sometimes, it’s the little things inside your home that have the biggest impact. Small changes to your everyday water habits can make a significant difference in your monthly bill.
- Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or washing dishes.
- Only run the dishwasher and washing machine with full loads.
- Use cold water when possible to reduce the strain on your hot water tank.
- Keep a close eye on how long showers last, especially in households with kids.
You can also reuse water when it’s safe to do so. For example, use collected rainwater for gardening, or collect water from washing fruits and vegetables to hydrate plants. These habits contribute to a more sustainable household and can show kids how to reduce your water bill this summer through mindful living.
Tip 5: Keep Up With Maintenance
A well-maintained plumbing system runs more efficiently and wastes less water. Regular maintenance helps you avoid unexpected leaks or damage that can drive up costs. If your water heater, pipes, or irrigation system haven’t been looked at in a while, summer is the perfect time to schedule a check-up.
- Check outdoor hose connections and replace worn-out washers.
- Inspect your irrigation system for clogs or broken sprinkler heads.
- Have a plumber inspect your home’s water pressure, which can impact how much water is pushed through your pipes.
- Flush your water heater to clear out sediment that might reduce efficiency.
Make Your Home More Water-Efficient This Summer
We know summer can fill your plate with pool gatherings, yard work, and life in general. You should spend your time living life, not worrying if today’s water bill will break the bank.
If you’ve gone through this list of tips to decrease your water bill and realized you’ve got a few things that could use a professional touch, give us a call. Environment Masters has been serving homeowners in metro Jackson since 1957. That’s decades of experience repairing, installing, and maintaining plumbing systems with care and dedication.
Our team is known for quick service, professional results, and honest advice. Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn leak or you’re ready to install water-saving fixtures, we’re here to help. And if you need drain work, we also handle drain cleaning in Jackson. Call us at (601) 300-2564 today to schedule your services!
