Salt Lake City Plumbing Tips to Conserve Water in Summer

Summers in Salt Lake City are hot, dry, and increasingly affected by ongoing drought conditions across Utah. As water restrictions tighten and utility rates rise, homeowners investigate practical ways to reduce water use without sacrificing comfort or cleanliness.

The good news? You don’t have to overhaul your entire lifestyle to make a difference. With just a few smart plumbing adjustments, you can reduce daily water waste, lower your bills, and support local conservation efforts. Below are some essential plumbing tips Salt Lake City residents can use to stay efficient all summer long.

Fix Leaks: Even the Small Ones

A slow drip from a faucet or a running toilet might seem harmless, but those minor issues can waste hundreds, sometimes thousands, of gallons of water each month. The EPA estimates that each household accounts for nearly 10,000 gallons of wasted water per year on average.

Focus on:

• Dripping faucets (especially outdoor hose bibs)
• Continuously running toilets
• Leaky showerheads or worn-out cartridges

In Salt Lake City, where every drop of water matters during summer droughts, repairing small problems can make a big impact. If you’re not sure where a leak is coming from, consider having a plumber perform a water efficiency test.

Upgrade to Water-Saving Fixtures

Not all fixtures are created equal. Older toilets, showerheads, and faucets often use more water than necessary. Modern, water-efficient fixtures are designed to perform just as well, if not better, while using significantly less.

Look for:

• EPA WaterSense-labeled toilets, faucets, and showerheads
• High-efficiency aerators for existing taps
• Dual-flush toilets for better control over water usage

The state of Utah and local utilities like Salt Lake City Public Utilities often offer rebates for upgrading to water-saving devices. These incentives can help offset the cost of installation and speed up your return on investment. Check current rebate programs before making a purchase.

Take Advantage of Local Water Rebates

Salt Lake City offers a variety of water conservation rebates that can make your plumbing upgrades more affordable and more sustainable. Through programs like Utah’s Water Savers initiative, homeowners may qualify for rebates when they replace older toilets, showerheads, or irrigation systems with high-efficiency models. These incentives not only help you cut down on monthly utility bills but also support the region’s long-term water conservation goals.

By combining plumbing tips with available rebates that Salt Lake City residents can trust, you can significantly reduce your home’s water use without sacrificing comfort. Late summer is a great time to evaluate your home for potential upgrades, especially if you've been noticing higher-than-usual water bills. Check with local utilities or the Utah Division of Water Resources for current rebate offerings and consult a plumber to ensure proper installation and maximum savings.

Be Smart About Outdoor Water Use

Outdoor irrigation is the largest source of residential water use during summer and the most common source of waste. Whether you're watering the lawn, washing the car, or filling a backyard kiddie pool, small changes in behavior can offer big savings.

Here’s what helps:

• Water your lawn early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation.
• Install drip irrigation systems for plants and gardens.
• Use mulch to retain soil moisture around trees and flower beds.
• Adjust sprinklers to avoid overspray on sidewalks or driveways.

Salt Lake City often implements specific watering guidelines or restrictions in late summer, so be sure to stay informed about your neighborhood’s requirements.

Insulate Pipes and Water Heaters

While insulation is often associated with winter preparation, it plays a role in summer efficiency, too. Insulated hot water pipes and water heaters reduce heat loss, meaning your water reaches the tap faster and you waste less waiting for it to warm up.

Benefits include:

• Lower water and energy usage
• Less strain on your water heater
• Shorter wait times for hot water at faucets and showers

Pipe insulation is inexpensive and easy to install, especially in basements or crawl spaces. It's a simple upgrade that pays off year-round.

Consider a Whole-Home Plumbing Inspection

If your water usage has been increasing, or if your home hasn’t had a plumbing checkup in a few years, a professional inspection can uncover hidden inefficiencies. From checking water pressure to spotting outdated fixtures and unnoticed leaks, a plumber can help you create a personalized water conservation plan.

At Roto-Rooter, we understand the challenges Salt Lake City homeowners face in the summer months. Our experienced technicians are familiar with local drought conditions, municipal rebate programs, and common plumbing problems with Utah’s dry climate. We can help you identify the most cost-effective upgrades and ensure your system is running as efficiently as possible.

Ready to act? Call Roto-Rooter at 800-768-6911 to schedule a water-saving plumbing inspection. We’re available 24/7, 365 days a year.