Hot, dry weather in Central Indiana leads to water conservation warning
Citizens Energy Group is encouraging people to conserve water and reduce watering their lawns while Central Indiana faces hot, dry weather. Here's what you need to know.
Why does Central Indiana need to conserve water?
Many parts of Indiana are abnormally dry this month, according to a report from the U.S. Drought Monitor.
Citizens Energy Group said during hot, dry weather events, about 50 to 70% of all drinking water in Central Indiana is used for watering lawns, a majority in automated watering systems.
This throws off the water distribution system. It can even negatively affect the grass, because most lawns only need to be watered once or twice a week, a news release from the provider said.
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How can I conserve water?
The Citizens Energy Group recommends a few ways to conserve water at home.
Only water the lawn once or twice a week. You can stagger the timing with your neighbors using this method:
Properties with an address ending in an odd number water on Monday and/or Thursday.
Properties with an address ending in an even number water on Tuesday and/or Friday.
Turn off your automated irrigation system in the case of rain.
If you live in a community that has a homeowners' association or shares a common lawn area, encourage management to limit lawn watering.
Limit use of your garden hose. For example, try sweeping instead of hosing areas off. Also be sure to monitor your hose for leaks and broken or loose connections.
Be efficient with use of your dishwasher and washing machine. Run them only when they are full and try to use a water-saving cycle option.
Citizens Energy Group said this can also benefit its customers. Conserving water will benefit the environment, but also lower your bills.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Drought monitor Indiana: Dry spell prompts water conservation warning
