Michigan summers are a beautiful blend of warm temperatures, outdoor fun, and lush landscapes. But with the heat comes increased water usage—for lawns, gardens, pools, and cooling off. Whether you’re washing your car in the driveway, running your sprinklers, or taking extra showers after a day at the lake, it’s easy for your water bill to spike and for local water supplies to feel the strain.
Even though Michigan is home to the Great Lakes and abundant freshwater resources, water conservation is still critical. Responsible water use helps preserve natural ecosystems, protect against pollution, and save you money. More importantly, small changes at home can collectively make a big difference across communities, especially during dry summer spells.
In this article, we’ll explore practical and effective water conservation tips specifically for Michigan homeowners. Whether you’re managing your lawn, adjusting your household habits, or upgrading your plumbing, these suggestions will help you enjoy the summer season while conserving one of our state’s most vital natural resources.
Why Water Conservation Matters in Michigan
It’s easy to assume Michigan doesn’t have to worry about water shortages, thanks to our proximity to the Great Lakes. But water overuse and waste have long-term consequences, even in water-rich regions.
Reasons Water Conservation Still Counts in Michigan:
- Drought Risk: Periods of low rainfall can dry out lawns, gardens, and crops, increasing demand on municipal water supplies.
- Water Treatment Energy Use: Treating and distributing water requires energy. Less usage = less energy consumption.
- Stormwater Management: Excessive watering can contribute to runoff that carries pollutants into rivers, lakes, and streams.
- Protecting Infrastructure: High water demand can strain aging plumbing systems and increase the need for repairs or upgrades.
- Saving Money: Water bills naturally rise in summer. Conservation means lower utility costs for your household.
With that in mind, let’s look at some smart ways to cut back on water use this summer without sacrificing comfort, cleanliness, or curb appeal.
Outdoor Water Conservation Tips
Outdoor water use accounts for a large percentage of summer water consumption, especially when it comes to lawns and gardens. A few mindful adjustments can drastically reduce waste and promote healthier landscapes.
1. Water Lawns Early or Late
The best times to water your lawn are early in the morning (before 10 AM) or in the evening (after 6 PM). Watering during the heat of the day causes faster evaporation, meaning your grass gets less benefit.
2. Water Deeply, Not Frequently
Instead of watering every day, water less often but more thoroughly. This encourages deeper root growth and makes your grass more drought-resistant.
3. Install a Smart Irrigation Controller
Smart controllers adjust watering schedules based on local weather forecasts and soil conditions, ensuring your lawn gets what it needs—no more, no less.
4. Use Mulch in Gardens
Mulch helps retain moisture in garden beds, reduces evaporation, and minimizes weed growth. It also keeps soil temperatures stable during hot weather.
5. Choose Native or Drought-Resistant Plants
Michigan native plants are adapted to the local climate and typically require less water than exotic species. Look for plants like:
- Purple coneflower
- Black-eyed Susan
- Little bluestem
- Wild columbine
6. Mow High and Leave the Clippings
Set your mower blade higher (around 3 inches). Taller grass shades the soil and retains moisture better. Leaving clippings on the lawn helps fertilize and adds moisture back into the ground.
7. Check for Leaks in Outdoor Faucets and Hoses
A leaky hose or faucet can waste thousands of gallons over the course of a summer. Check for drips and use rubber washers to seal connections tightly.
8. Use a Broom, Not a Hose
Instead of hosing down your driveway or sidewalk, use a broom to clear debris. It’s faster and uses zero gallons of water.
Indoor Water Conservation Tips
Most of us don’t realize how much water we use inside the house during the summer. Between extra showers, more laundry, and the kids being home from school, indoor usage can spike quickly.
9. Take Shorter Showers
The average shower uses around 2.1 gallons per minute. Cutting your shower time by just 2 minutes can save hundreds of gallons each month.
10. Fix Leaky Faucets and Toilets
A single dripping faucet can waste over 3,000 gallons a year. A toilet with a silent leak can waste even more. If you hear running water or notice higher bills, call a plumber to inspect.
11. Use a Water-Efficient Showerhead
Low-flow showerheads use about 1.5–2 gallons per minute, compared to older models that use 3–5 gallons. Modern ones still offer strong water pressure while cutting usage in half.
12. Only Run Full Loads
Whether it’s your dishwasher or washing machine, make sure you’re running full loads to maximize efficiency. Avoid using partial cycles or washing one or two items at a time.
13. Turn Off the Tap When Not in Use
Simple changes like turning off the water while brushing your teeth, shaving, or rinsing dishes can save several gallons each day.
14. Use a Basin to Rinse Produce
Instead of rinsing fruits and vegetables under running water, use a basin or bowl. You can even reuse the water for your garden afterward.
Plumbing Upgrades That Save Water
If you’re ready to take conservation a step further, consider making a few smart plumbing upgrades. These changes can save thousands of gallons per year and often pay for themselves through reduced water bills.
15. Install Dual-Flush or Low-Flow Toilets
Modern toilets use just 1.28 gallons per flush or less—compared to 3–7 gallons in older models. Dual-flush models offer a lighter flush for liquid waste and a stronger one for solids.
16. Upgrade to WaterSense Fixtures
Look for the WaterSense label on faucets, showerheads, and toilets. These fixtures are certified by the EPA to reduce water use by at least 20% without sacrificing performance.
17. Add Faucet Aerators
Aerators mix air into the water stream, reducing flow while maintaining pressure. They’re inexpensive, easy to install, and great for kitchen and bathroom sinks.
18. Use Hot Water Recirculation Systems
Tired of waiting for the water to heat up in your shower? A hot water recirculation system provides instant hot water while reducing waste from cold water runoff.
Water Conservation for Kids and Guests
Summer means more time at home, more visitors, and more opportunities for education. Teach children and houseguests about smart water habits:
- Encourage water-saving games and challenges.
- Put up signs near sinks to remind people to turn off the tap.
- Provide reusable water bottles instead of letting guests fill disposable cups over and over.
Pool and Car Washing Tips
19. Cover Your Pool
Pool covers reduce evaporation, retain heat, and keep debris out—meaning you’ll use less water to top it off and less energy to keep it warm.
20. Use a Commercial Car Wash
Most commercial car washes recycle their water, making them more efficient than washing your car at home. If you must wash at home, use a bucket and sponge and rinse with a hose that has an automatic shut-off nozzle.
Rainwater Harvesting
21. Install a Rain Barrel
Rain barrels collect water from your roof that you can use to water your lawn or garden. It’s an eco-friendly, cost-saving solution that’s easy to install and maintain.
Some municipalities in Michigan even offer rebates or rain barrel programs to help you get started.
Monitor Your Water Use
Finally, knowing your usage is key. Many Michigan utilities now offer tools to track your water usage through online portals or monthly statements. Keep an eye out for spikes that could indicate leaks or overuse.
Apps and smart home devices can also alert you to water waste, detect leaks, or provide real-time usage data.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
Even with all the right habits, some water waste comes from behind-the-scenes issues only a professional can spot. You should contact a licensed Michigan plumber if:
- Your water bill spikes unexpectedly
- You suspect hidden leaks or dripping pipes
- Your toilet runs constantly or takes a long time to fill
- You want to upgrade fixtures to high-efficiency models
- Your home hasn’t had a plumbing inspection in several years
Preventative maintenance goes hand-in-hand with conservation. A single fix could save thousands of gallons annually.
Start Saving Water Today
Michigan summers are meant to be enjoyed—on the lake, in the garden, or around the BBQ. By following these water conservation tips, you can help protect our natural resources, save money, and ensure a sustainable future for our state.
Even small actions like installing a faucet aerator, watering your lawn in the morning, or teaching your kids to turn off the tap can add up to a big difference.
If you’re ready to take your conservation efforts further, Aspen Plumbing Services is here to help. From fixing leaks to installing efficient plumbing fixtures, we can help you save water all summer long.
