The high heat and humidity caused hourly water use to reach a high of 18.8 million litres on Monday, July 9, 2012. It is one of the highest on record in the last decade. The highest recorded hourly water use in Winnipeg was recorded in 1988 at 40 million litres.
Any time there is a large increase or change in water usage, the natural buildup of material in the water mains is disturbed and can cause discoloured tap water for a small number of properties. The discoloured water typically doesn’t last long. Residents experiencing discoloured water should run cold water for 10 minutes and then leave it off for 30 minutes. The water is usually clear after that. If the water is still discoloured after two to three hours, residents should phone 311.
Tips for reducing summer water use and water bill costs:
* The best time for watering your lawn or garden is early morning, before the heat of the day.
* Consider collecting rainwater for watering your plants or garden. Direct the downspout of your eavestroughs into a rain barrel or other large container and keep it covered with an insect screen.
* Adjust sprinklers so only your lawn and garden is watered and not the house, sidewalk, or street.
* Check outdoor faucets, sprinklers and hoses for leaks.
* Use a pool cover to reduce water loss due to evaporation.
* Sweep your driveway to clean it, rather than using treated drinking water.
* Keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator to avoid turning on the tap too often and wasting water.
