Hot, dry weather can quickly increase water use across CoMo. Lawns and gardens need more attention, people take more showers, and small leaks can waste water around the clock. Using water wisely does not mean giving up comfort or letting plants go without care. It means paying attention to where water is going, fixing waste early, and building a few practical habits into everyday routines.
Start by Checking for Leaks
A sudden change in your water bill may be one of the first signs that something is wrong. The City of Columbia’s water leak guidance explains how to compare monthly usage and check common problem areas, including toilets, faucets, pipes, water heaters and water softeners. A toilet that runs slow or a faucet that drips may seem minor, but the waste adds up when it continues all day.
Actions to take:
- Review your water bill and look for unusual increases.
- Listen for running toilets or hissing near pipes when no water is being used.
- Report leaks quickly to your landlord or property manager if you rent.
- Contact a plumber or Columbia Water & Light when a leak needs professional attention.
Make Everyday Routines More Efficient
Some of the easiest water savings happen indoors. Columbia’s indoor water conservation tips recommend shorter showers, turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth or washing dishes, and waiting until the dishwasher or washing machine is full before running it. These changes are simple, cost little or nothing, and can become automatic with practice.
Try choosing one habit to focus on this week. Set a timer for a five-minute shower, keep a reusable bottle of cold water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap, or make sure roommates agree to run only full loads of laundry.
Students and Renters Can Make a Difference
August is move-in season for many Columbia college students. Whether you live in a dorm, apartment or shared house, you can still help reduce water waste, even when the utility bill is included in rent. This university’s student water conservation guide suggests practical steps such as using only the water needed for cooking, avoiding unnecessary pre-rinsing before loading a dishwasher and running full loads of dishes and laundry.
Students signing a lease can also use Columbia’s guide for efficient rental homes to learn what utilities they will pay, review past water and electric usage when available, and ask about the efficiency of fixtures and appliances. Once you move in, talk with roommates about shared expectations for reporting leaks and using water responsibly.
Take Advantage of Columbia Programs
Columbia Water & Light offers water conservation programs that can help residents make larger improvements. Eligible residential and commercial customers may qualify for an Efficient Flush Rebate when replacing an inefficient toilet with a WaterSense-certified model. The Efficient Irrigation System program provides guidance on watering practices and rebates for qualifying upgrades.
During hot, dry months, every household, apartment, and residence hall can play a role. Fixing a leak, shortening a shower, or improving an irrigation system may feel like a small step, but together these choices help protect Columbia’s water resources and build a more resilient community.
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