Useful Tips for Summertime Fun Without Wasting Water

The beauty of summer is the ability to kick back, let loose and have fun. It’s vacation and leisure time, right? The problem is that many of your summer activities and home maintenance require more water. Given that there is a global water crisis, wasting water is not advisable.

You don’t have to forgo summer fun. By paying attention to conservation, you can reduce your water usage at home, thus reducing your water footprint overall. That way you can enjoy what summer has to offer and help out Mother Earth at the same time.

Here is what you should know.

The Biggest Water Waster is Plumbing Leaks

In order for you to have fun with a clear conscience, you need to proactively take steps to make sure that you aren’t wasting water at home. One of the biggest culprits behind water waste is plumbing leaks.

Sometimes plumbing leaks are obvious (i.e. a leaky faucet or pooling water coming from a plumbing fixture), but they can also be harder to spot.

Get in the habit of inspecting your plumbing for possible leaks. Some common signs include a musty odor, mold growth, damp spots on floors or walls, low water pressure or an unexplained increase in your water bills. Also look under sink cabinets for pooling water or moisture on the pipes.

Fun Water Time

Now that you’re sure you’ve got your water waste under control, it’s time to plan some fun cool-down activities outside.

Even the most novice DIY homeowner can create a water park in their backyard. Attach an empty water bottle to a hose and puncture it with holes, and you’ve got a sprinkler.

You can accomplish the same thing with a pool noodle. Puncture it with holes, fit in the garden hose at one end (you’ll probably need some duct tape) and get ready to get wet.

There is nothing more refreshing (and fun) than a good old-fashioned water balloon or water gun fight. Stock up and every man for himself!

Don’t Waste Water with Your Sprinkler or Hoses

When you are tending to your garden, don’t let your sprinklers or hoses be the source of water waste. Aim your sprinkler at the lawn (not the driveway) to make sure you water the grass or your garden only.

Water in the early morning or at night when you are less vulnerable to evaporation. A cracked hose will seep water out and cause you to waste.

Inspect your hose and hose fittings often for damage, filling out barrels or buckets during the rain can also help you  conserve water.