Chicago Home and Lifestyles – Conserving Water During the Drought

With the severe drought in Chicago and the entire Midwest, it’s good to try and conserve as much water as possible.

By using a porous material for walkways, such as pavers or gravel instead of solid cement or asphalt, rainwater will be able to soak into the ground slowly and avoid water running off into the sewer.

Instead of using tap water, collect the little bit of rain we are getting in rain barrels for use in your containers and garden. Plants love the warmer non-treated rainwater, and you save money. You’ll also lose less water to evaporation if you water lawns and gardens early in the morning or early evening.

By fixing faucets that leak, you can save gallons of water a day.

And when you wash your car, try to fill up a bucket of water instead of leaving the hose run the entire time.

There are also water-wise shower heads designed to conserve water that you can use. These showerheads are inexpensive and will save a hefty amount of water. You can also become more efficient in the shower, with a shower lasting no more than 5 minutes.

Find uses for water that typically goes down the drain while waiting for cold water to warm up. The water that you collect can be used for your plants or washing floors and such.

Try to run your washing machine and dishwasher only with full loads. Doing so during off-peak hours will also help energy sources.

By following these tips, you can help conserve water during this time. You might even see some positive effects on your water bill!

KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH AND DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO