Iowa American Water Provides Handy Tips to Conserve Water and Save Mon...

Davenport, IA - JULY 16, 2024 - Iowa American Water highlights tips for wise water use this summer. It's estimated that up to 50% of the water we use outdoors in the summer is not needed to maintain a healthy landscape. By implementing the tips below, you can conserve when watering, in the yard and around the house.

"Summer months tend to be a very water-centric season. People have lawns and gardens to maintain, swimming pools to fill and tons of water-related activities to enjoy - not to mention the increase in water consumption simply because hot weather requires individuals to drink more water," said Brad Nielsen, President of Iowa American Water. ""Unfortunately, many customers don't think about the amount of water they are using 'in the moment', and the reality hits when they get a higher water bill. Our goal is to raise our customers' awareness and help them be proactive with simple tips they can implement now that allow them to save later."

• When Watering:
  • Only water when needed: Depending on the weather or type of plants/turf, you may find you only need to water once or twice per week.
  • Water early in the morning or late in the day: Water when the sun is low minimizes evaporation.
  • Watch what you're watering: Check sprinkler heads to be sure they're not wasting water on paved or unwanted areas. Reduce run times for shaded areas.
  • Keep an eye on the weather: If rain is in the forecast, you may not need to water your plants or lawn. Consider turning off your sprinkler system off ahead of time.
  • Make use of rainwater: Water collected in rain barrels can be used later to water outdoor plants and trees. Just make sure rain barrels have proper coverings.
• In the Yard:
  • Use drought-resistant species: Native plants will have the benefit of being adapted to local conditions. Also, they usually need less maintenance and watering.
  • Mulch: Mulching beds can help retain moisture and prevent weeds. Be careful not to over-mulch. Two to three inches should do the job.
  • Set your mower higher: Anything cut less than two inches high is much more vulnerable to burnout, weeds, insects and disease. The sweet spot is somewhere between 2.5 to 3.5 inches, depending on the time of year.
• Around the House
  • Check for leaks and breaks: Do a periodic walkthrough of your landscaped area to make sure irrigation system pipes are in good condition.
  • Sweep, don't spray: Use a broom instead of a hose to clean patios, decks and sidewalks.
  • Car wash wisely: Washing a car with a bucket of soapy water uses far less water than leaving a hose running.

For even more water-saving and conservation tips, visit: https://www.amwater.com/iaaw/Water-Wastewater-Information/wise-water-use.

The company also wants to remind lower income customers that they may qualify to receive emergency assistance in paying their water bill through Iowa American Water's H2O Help to Others Program, which is administered by Community Action of Eastern Iowa or other customer assistance programs that may be available. More information is available at www.iowaamwater.com by clicking on Customer Service & Billing > Customer Assistance Programs.

Additionally, American Water received the EPA's 2023 WaterSense Excellence Award for our strategic collaboration efforts in research and consumer education.

About American Water

American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water's 6,500 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company's national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders.

For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

Iowa American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest regulated water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water services to approximately 225,000 people.