The 4th of July is almost here! While you prepare for the summer holiday, save water and money with these five water-saving tips.

Your plumbing system works extra hard during the hot summers, so why use it more than you need to? You’ll likely be entertaining guests for the 4th of July, and more people means more water.

So how do you go about having a fun-filled 4th of July without breaking the bank on your water bill? We have some tips for you.

1. Don’t Use Water To Thaw Meat

The safest and most water-efficient way to defrost food is in the refrigerator. When defrosting meat with water, there’s a chance the water will become too warm and will contaminate the meat. As soon as the meat begins to thaw and becomes warmer than 40 °F, bacteria will multiply. Plan ahead, and thaw all your 4th of July meats in the refrigerator and save water.

2. Use a Broom Instead of a Hose

When you need to clean off your patio, sidewalk, or driveway, consider using a broom rather than a hose. Spraying down your hangout areas or walkways wastes a lot of water and a broom works just as well. Using a broom also has the added benefit of giving you some great exercise.

3. Rinse Your Fruits & Vegetables in a Container of Water

Instead of letting the faucet run to rinse the fruits and vegetables for your 4th of July celebration, use a small container of cold water instead. Then, collect the water you used to rinse the fruits and vegetables and reuse it to water your house plants.

4. Never Run the Dishwasher Without a Full Load

Even though dishwashers have become more efficient over the last decade, running them half-full wastes twice the water. No matter how efficient your dishwasher is, always load it up.

5. Use Leftover Ice To Water Your Plants

You’re probably going to have leftover or melted ice at the end of your 4th of July celebration, but don’t put it all down the drain! Water your indoor plants with the excess water, and place the ice cubes in your outdoor pots. Your plants and water bill will thank you.

The best way to avoid increasing your water bill tremendously this 4th of July is to have a professional inspect your plumbing system.

Call our expert plumbers today to prepare your home for the 4th of July festivities.