Do you know where your water comes from?
It’s important to know, because water — and having enough of it — is an important issue for Panhandle residents.
As the Amarillo and Lubbock areas grow, demand increases on our natural water sources — Lake Meredith and the Ogallala Aquifer. We all need to do our part to save water year-round, not just when the hot summer months are upon us.
It’s as easy as fixing a broken sprinkler head, using a soaker hose or keeping showers under eight minutes. If everyone uses less water, we can save millions of gallons and make our water supplies last.
A few simple tips you can use around your home to save water:
- Outdoors
- Check sprinkler systems frequently for directional aim and broken heads to prevent watering driveways, sidewalks and streets.
- Check for leaks in taps, pipes and hoses. One leaky faucet can waste 20 gallons per day. That could mean up to 7,000 gallons per year.
- Raise your lawnmower blade and cut grass to a height of three inches. This helps to shade your soil and reduce evaporation. Your roots will grow deeper and you will have a healthier lawn.
- If you own a pool, pay close attention to the water level. If it varies drastically from day to day, you may have a leak and need it serviced immediately. Swimming pools should not be drained and refilled during the summer except to replace normal water loss.
- Indoors
- Install low-flow shower heads. They’re inexpensive and can help cut your water use in half.
- Choose water-saving appliances, like dishwashers and washing machines. Only operate your appliances when you have a full load.
- Turn off the water while brushing your teeth, and washing your face and hands.
- Rinse your razor in a plugged sink, not under running water.
Lower your water use. Raise your Water IQ.
