The City of Buda saw record water use during the month of July 2017. As a whole, Buda water customers used 57.1 million gallons of water in July 2017 compared to only 45.1 million gallons used in July of 2016, the previous record high.
While some of the increase in water consumption is due to the additional 179 customers that were added between July 2016 and July 2017 (a 5.01% annual growth), the increase is also attributable to the hot temperatures and increased lawn watering. July 2017 experienced an average daily high temperature of 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit with temperatures exceeding 100+ degrees on fourteen days. By comparison, July 2016 saw the average high temperature of 97.7 degrees Fahrenheit with temperatures exceeding 100+ degrees on seven days. Furthermore, July 2017 rainfall totaled 1.06” compared to 5.65” of rain in July of 2016. Many home irrigation systems now come with rain sensors that fluctuate when the system operates based on rainfall. While you may not have adjusted your system, your system may still have used more water than the previous July due to the rain sensor.
The City of Buda has adopted tiered rates as part of its water conservation efforts. With the tiered rates, consumers that use a higher amount pay a higher rate per 1,000 gallons of water. Due to the higher than normal consumption during the month of July 2017, many residential customers saw their rate go up as a result.
Customers can take steps to help save water and lower their water bills. Since most water is used for irrigation, these simple steps can help you save.
Water Conservation Tips
- Adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered and not the house, sidewalk, or street.
- Choose shrubs and ground covers instead of turf for hard-to-water areas such as strips.
- Install covers on pools and spas and check for leaks around your pumps.
- Plant in the fall when conditions are cooler and rainfall is more plentiful.
- Use compost when planting and cover the area with mulch afterwards. Compost helps keep the water by the plant’s roots and mulch prevents evaporation.
- Wash your fruits and vegetables in a pan of water instead of running water from the tap.
- Collect the water you use for rinsing fruits and vegetables, then reuse it to water houseplants.
- Water your lawn and garden in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler to minimize water loss due to evaporation.
- If water runs off your lawn easily, split your watering time into shorter periods to allow for better absorption.
- We're more likely to notice leaks indoors, but don't forget to check outdoor faucets, sprinklers and hoses for leaks.
- Use a broom instead of a hose to clean your driveway and sidewalk and save water every time.