Dover City Promotes Efficient Water Use Amid Summer Heat Wave

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DOVER, NH – As the summer temperatures continue to soar, the City of Dover is urging residents to adopt more efficient water use practices to help manage the heightened demand during peak season. The city's water system, bolstered by the recent addition of the Pudding Hill Water Treatment Plant, is currently stable, yet the community is encouraged to engage in mindful water consumption.

According to John Storer, Community Services Director, there has been a noticeable increase in water usage, with daily consumption peaking at 3 million gallons on the hottest days—significantly higher than the average of 1.8 million gallons used during off-peak periods.

City Manager J. Michael Joyal, Jr. emphasized the strength and capability of the city’s water infrastructure to meet current demands. "Our system is more than capable of handling the increased usage," Joyal stated. "However, we encourage everyone to consider simple but effective ways to conserve water. This not only preserves our resources but also ensures the sustainability of our water supply."

Residents are advised to adopt several water-saving measures:

• Optimal Watering Times: Water lawns and gardens early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation.
• Alternative Cleaning Methods: Use brooms instead of hoses to clean driveways and sidewalks.
• Fix Leaks: Address leaky faucets and toilets promptly to prevent water wastage.
• Install Water-Efficient Fixtures: Equip showers and sinks with low-flow heads and aerators.
• Load Optimization: Only run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads.
• Rainwater Harvesting: Collect and use rainwater for gardening.
• Car Wash: Use commercial car washes that recycle water.
• Mindful Lawn Watering: Most lawns require just 1 inch of water per week.

The city also offers the "Eye on Water" service, which allows water customers to track their usage online and receive alerts for potential leaks. This service is crucial for early detection of irregularities in water use that could indicate leaks. Residents can register for this service at eyeonwater.com/signup using their water service account number.

For more details on water conservation and to access real-time water usage data, residents can visit the city's website or contact the Community Services Department at 603-516-6450. Further information and tips on water conservation are available through the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Resources.