As Washington faces increasingly dry summers, water conservation isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential. Whether you live in Seattle, Spokane, or anywhere in between, conserving water during the dry season helps lower your utility bills, reduces strain on your local water system, and supports a healthier environment for everyone.
Here are 10 friendly, actionable, and effective ways to conserve water during Washington’s 2025 dry season
1. Install Low-Flow Showerheads and Faucets
One of the simplest upgrades you can make in your home is installing low-flow showerheads and faucets. These fixtures reduce the amount of water used without sacrificing pressure. In fact, many homeowners don’t even notice a difference in feel but do notice a difference in their water bill. In Washington, where long hot showers can be tempting in both summer and winter, this small change can save thousands of gallons of water per year per household. Look for WaterSense-labeled fixtures—they meet EPA criteria for water efficiency.
2. Water Your Lawn Early or Late
When you water your garden or lawn during peak sunlight hours (usually between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.), much of that water evaporates before it reaches the roots. By shifting your watering schedule to early morning (before 9 a.m.) or after sunset, you ensure more water soaks into the soil. This small change maximizes efficiency and reduces waste. Bonus tip: water deeply and less often to encourage deep root growth and drought resistance.
3. Fix Leaky Toilets and Faucets Immediately
A small leak might seem harmless, but one drip per second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water a year. In dry months, that’s the last thing your household (and community) needs. Fixing a leaky faucet is often a quick DIY job, while a running toilet may require a simple flapper replacement. If you’re unsure, a licensed plumber can handle it quickly. Leaks are silent water wasters—deal with them ASAP.
4. Use a Broom Instead of a Hose to Clean Driveways and Sidewalks
It might feel satisfying to hose down your driveway, but that can waste 50 to 100 gallons in just a few minutes. A broom is just as effective for removing leaves, dirt, and debris—and it uses zero water. This quick swap is one of the easiest ways to conserve and teaches younger residents in the home to respect water as a valuable resource.
5. Collect Rainwater for Outdoor Use
Washington still gets periodic rain, even during dry seasons. By installing a rain barrel or diverter system from your gutters, you can store runoff and use it to water your garden or wash your car. Rain barrels are affordable, eco-friendly, and often qualify for local rebates. Plus, plants prefer untreated rainwater over chlorinated tap water.
6. Switch to Drought-Tolerant Landscaping
Native plants like Oregon grape, red-flowering currant, or stonecrop succulents thrive in Washington’s climate and require far less watering than thirsty turfgrass. By incorporating drought-tolerant species, you can create a vibrant, low-maintenance garden that saves water and attracts local pollinators like bees and butterflies. Talk to your local nursery for recommendations specific to your region.
7. Run Full Loads Only in Dishwashers and Washing Machines
Modern appliances are much more efficient than older models, but they still use dozens of gallons per cycle. Running your dishwasher or washing machine only when full maximizes efficiency. You’ll conserve water, energy, and reduce wear on your machines. For extra savings, switch to an Energy Star-certified model if your appliance is due for replacement.
8. Install a Smart Irrigation Controller
A smart irrigation controller can adjust watering schedules based on weather forecasts, soil moisture, and plant needs. In Washington’s summer months, these systems prevent overwatering and make yard maintenance almost effortless. Some systems even connect to your phone, letting you monitor or shut off sprinklers remotely. It’s a worthy upgrade for eco-conscious homeowners.
9. Reuse Water Where You Can
Reusing water doesn’t have to be complicated. For example, save water used to rinse fruits and veggies and pour it into your garden. If you have pets, use their leftover drinking water to hydrate outdoor plants. Just make sure not to reuse water with soap or cleaning products unless it’s safe for plants (i.e., biodegradable and phosphate-free).
10. Talk to Your Family and Neighbors About Conservation
Water conservation is a community effort. Encourage your kids, roommates, or neighbors to adopt small habits like turning off the faucet while brushing their teeth or taking shorter showers. When your community is on the same page, small efforts multiply into big savings—especially important during drought alerts or restricted watering schedules.
Final Thoughts
These tips aren’t just for 2025—they’re good habits to adopt for long-term sustainability. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a lifelong Washington resident, reducing your water use benefits your wallet, your neighbors, and the planet.
For more eco-friendly plumbing ideas and trusted professionals across Washington, explore NW Plumbers—your local source for everything plumbing.
Stay cool and conserve smart this summer!
