After a winter that didn’t deliver much snowpack, the Denver metro area is heading into summer with drier-than-normal conditions: a reality that puts extra pressure on our water supply. The good news? You don’t need a total lifestyle overhaul to make a meaningful difference. Small, intentional changes can add up quickly, helping conserve water, lower your utility bills, and protect a resource that’s especially precious here in Colorado.

• Fix leaks before they drain your wallet: Even small drips can waste surprising amounts of water over time. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that minor household leaks can add up to gallons lost every day. A quick check of faucets, toilets, and irrigation systems can catch issues early…and often, the fix is as simple as replacing a worn washer or flapper.
• Rethink your watering routine: When and how you water outdoors matters just as much as how much. The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) recommends watering early in the morning or later in the evening to reduce evaporation. It’s also worth adjusting sprinklers so you’re not watering sidewalks or driveways, something many of us are guilty of without realizing.
• Shorten showers (just a little): You don’t have to rush, but trimming even a couple of minutes off your shower can save thousands of gallons each year. Both the NRDC and EPA point out that showers typically use less water than baths, especially when you’re mindful about time. Bonus points if you turn off the water while lathering.
• Run full loads every time: Whether it’s the dishwasher or washing machine, waiting until you have a full load is one of the easiest ways to cut back. According to the NRDC, modern dishwashers can use significantly less water than washing by hand, especially when used efficiently.
• Be smarter outside: Outdoor use can account for a huge portion of summer water consumption. The EPA estimates that up to 70% of household water use can happen outside in hot months. Simple swaps, like using a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways or choosing a commercial car wash that recycles water, can make a noticeable impact.
• Capture and reuse what you can: A rain barrel might not seem like much, but it’s a simple way to make use of the water you do get. The NRDC highlights rain collection as an effective way to keep water where it’s needed instead of letting it run off into streets and storm drains.
• Make small daily habit changes: Turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, keeping a pitcher of cold water in the fridge, or using one glass throughout the day are easy, low-effort shifts. As the Dollar Energy Fund emphasizes, it’s these small, consistent habits that can lead to noticeable savings over time.

At the end of the day, water conservation isn’t about perfection, it’s about awareness. In a dry year like this one, every little bit helps. And when an entire community makes those small changes together, the impact can be significant for the long-term health of our region.