How to Deal with Water Shortages at Home

According to CNN.com's Gerri Willis, approximately 35% of the United States is currently experiencing drought conditions, which means that water restrictions are on the rise. Even if your state or county hasn't made water conservation mandatory, it's in your best interest to deal with water shortages starting at home. It can help conserve the resources we have left, and will also lower your water bill!

Deal with Leaks Immediately

As soon as you notice a leaky faucet or commode, repair the damage yourself or call a qualified plumber to do it for you. A dripping faucet can waste as much as 15 gallons in a 24-hour period, which will not only add to your water bill, but will increase water shortages. Just don't attempt any repairs by yourself unless you're sure you know how to do it correctly, and don't forget to check outdoor faucets that might be causing a problem.

Install Aerators

Most kitchen and bathroom faucets come with aerators, which are small metal or plastic disks that are screwed into the faucet. They reduce the flow of water from the pipes to your spigot, and can help deal with water shortages. They cost only a few cents at Wal-Mart or Home Depot, and can save hundreds of gallons of water annually. Also, make sure to remove them once every three months or so for a good cleaning.

Promote Moisture Retention

Another way in which you can help fight water shortages is by paying attention to your front and back yards. For example, autumn is the perfect time to be raking leaves, but the experts caution against it. Ground cover will help the soil retain its moisture, requiring you to water less frequently.

It's also a good idea to spread mulch or wood shavings over your flower beds to help the soil stay moist for longer periods of time. Grass should be left fairly long (3+ inches) and try not to cut low branches from trees so shade is increased.

Water Conservatively

Many people over water when water shortages are afoot, but this isn't a good idea. Instead, water each section of your lawn for only twenty minutes or less (with the standard sprinkler). It's better to water in the morning or the evening before the sun has a chance to evaporate moisture, and you only need to water in the fall every two weeks or so as long as it isn't hot.

Save Rain Water

If you set several buckets or a couple of trash cans on your porch or lawn when it rains, you can capture rain water for watering your lawn and garden. This will help ease the water shortages and is actually better for plants than what you get out of the tap.

Water shortages are inconvenient for everyone involved, but you can help reduce waste by consciously thinking about the water you use. Don't take long showers or flush the toilet too often, and you can also wash dishes by hand if you have the time.