Living in British Columbia and the Lower Mainland, we are spoiled with clean water to drink, water our gardens, and wash our clothes and lawns. Although water can be plentiful, we still need to understand ways to conserve it as it’s a valuable resource. Surging temperatures are breaking heat records across British Columbia and Metro Vancouver watering restrictions began May 1. Below are several tips to help conserve water in your home and during the summer and all year round.

Indoors

In your home, the toilet uses more water than any other appliance including showers and washers. Installing a low-flow toilet will help conserve water as will using full loads when washing your clothes or using your dishwasher. Turning the tap off while you brush your teeth and filling up a container of water to chill in the fridge are small ways to conserve. Also, be sure to take shorter baths and showers. Filling up a container of shower water, free of soap, can be used to water your garden as well.

Outdoors

In the summer, we generally use more water due to gardens and washing our cars. However, there are several ways to conserve water when outside in the summer. First, water your garden in the morning by hand watering the soil. Doing this will keep the water from evaporating during the heat of the day. Placing mulch around plants also helps to store moisture if you have water restrictions. Don’t water your lawn unless you have to, and only wash your car if your windshield or mirrors are dirty. After you’re done using the hose, make sure you have a shut-off valve installed to keep the water from running when not in use.

Taking note of what vegetables or plants thrive in dry environment can prove to be beneficial for conserving water. Plants that use less water will need to be watered less often and will require less maintenance overall. Planting trees to provide shade will help keep the soil moist and moving planters during the hottest part of the day will keep your flowers from wilting.

Using the tips above will help you use less water and conserve more. Water restrictions are set by Metro Vancouver and apply to the use of treated drinking water. Water restrictions help to make sure we have enough treated drinking water for everyone during the dry summer months.  Restrictions are in effect May 1 to October 15. Find out more ways you can reduce your water use and protect our waterways.