The extreme heat and drought in the southwestern United States have been making living in this area of the country quite challenging over the years. With temperatures rising and water sources becoming increasingly scarce, homeowners have had to get creative when it comes to dealing with the adverse weather conditions.
To stay safe during these tough times, homeowners need to make sure that their homes are working efficiently and that they are following proper safety protocols. This means taking extra steps to conserve water, to keep energy use down, and to protect themselves from the harsh weather.
Fortunately, there are many strategies and technologies that Southwest homeowners can adopt to help them get through these trying times and maintain the quality of their home and lifestyle.
Conserve Water
The most significant step Southwest homeowners can take to combat the drought is to conserve water. Although it may require some sacrifice on behalf of the homeowner, it is essential to get into the habit of conserving as much water as possible. Some of the best ways to do this include taking shorter showers and fixing any leaks or water-wasting toilet flappers.
In addition, some areas offer financial incentives for homeowners who install water-saving appliances, such as low-flow showerheads and toilets. This can be a great way to save money and help the environment at the same time.
Utilize Mining Cool Air
The scorching heat in the Southwest can be unbearable, so it is important for homeowners to find creative ways to keep cool. By utilizing a process called “mining cool air”, homeowners can take advantage of the cooler temperatures in the evening and early morning to cool down their homes. This can be done by opening windows and letting in the cooler air, or by venting warm air out of the home.
Another great way to keep the home cool is to use fans to circulate air. By using a fan to draw in cooler air from outside, homeowners can redirect it throughout the rooms in their home. This can result in a significant decrease in indoor temperatures, with minimal energy use.
Finally, it is also important for homeowners to keep their blinds or curtains closed during the day. This will help keep the sun’s intense rays from heating up the home and ensure that the indoor temperatures stay cool.
Plant Native Species
The drought has also had a significant effect on the native plant species in the Southwest. With their roots no longer able to extract water from the soil, these plants are struggling to survive. One way homeowners can help is by planting native species that are better suited to the arid climate.
In addition, homeowners should be sure to use drought-resistant mulch whenever possible to help insulate the plants and keep them healthy. It is also recommended to plant drought-tolerant grasses, which are better equipped to withstand the drier weather.
Finally, homeowners should also make sure to water their plants only as needed. Overwatering can be just as detrimental as not watering them enough, so it is important for homeowners to be aware of the amount of water they are using for their plants.
Helpful Tips
- Take shorter showers
- Fix any leaks or water-wasting toilet flappers
- Invest in water-saving appliances
- Utilize “mining cool air” to keep temperatures down
- Use fans to circulate air
- Keep blinds or curtains closed during the day
- Plant native species
- Utilize drought-resistant mulch
- Water plants only as needed
Conclusion
Living in the Southwest can be quite challenging due to the extreme heat and drought. Fortunately, there are many steps that homeowners can take to ensure that they, their families, and their homes remain safe and healthy during these trying times.