3 Tips to Lower Your Summer Plumbing Bill

As temperatures rise in Cape May Court House, and along the Jersey Shore, so can your water bills. From outdoor fun to extra loads of laundry, summer often means increased water usage—but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with high plumbing costs.

With just a few simple changes, you can cut back on water waste, boost your plumbing system’s efficiency, and keep more money in your pocket!

1. Check for Leaks—Inside and Out
2. Be Smart About Outdoor Water Use
3. Upgrade to Water-Saving Fixtures and Appliances

3 Ways to Reduce Water Waste This Summer

Here are three easy and effective plumbing tips from the pros at Broadley’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning to help lower your summer water bill without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

1. Check for Plumbing Leaks—Inside and Out

Even the smallest leaks can add up to gallons of wasted water and hundreds of dollars lost over the summer. A dribbling faucet, a running toilet, or a hidden pipe leak may not seem like a big deal—but left unchecked, these issues can quietly inflate your water bill every month.

Start With a Simple Inspection:

• Toilets: Put a few drops of food coloring into the tank and wait 15–20 minutes without flushing. If the color shows up in the bowl, you have a silent leak.
• Faucets and showerheads: Look for steady drips or water pooling around the base, especially after use.
• Outdoor spigots and hoses: These often go unnoticed but can leak or wear out with frequent summer use. Make sure hose connections are tight and replace any cracked washers or fittings.

Pro Plumbing Tip: If your water bill has been creeping up but your usage habits haven’t changed, it’s time to call in a professional. Broadley’s experienced plumbing team can perform a thorough inspection to pinpoint hidden leaks and prevent water waste before it adds up.

2. Be Smart About Outdoor Water Use

It’s no secret that lawn care, gardening, and summer playtime can increase your outdoor water usage dramatically. But with a few smart strategies, you can keep your grass green, your flowers blooming, and your water bill low.

How to Save Water Outside:

• Water early or late: Watering during the early morning or evening reduces evaporation caused by midday heat, making your efforts more effective.
• Install a rain barrel: Collect rainwater from your gutters and use it to water your garden for free!
• Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation: These targeted systems minimize runoff and deliver water directly to plant roots.
• Set a schedule: Avoid overwatering by creating a watering schedule based on your lawn and garden’s actual needs, not just the calendar.
• Head to a splash pad or water park: Enjoy outdoor fun without turning on your sprinklers by visiting a local splash pad or budget-friendly water park. It’s a great way to cool off, save water, and keep the whole family entertained—all while giving your lawn a break.

3. Upgrade to Water-Saving Fixtures and Appliances

The easiest way to cut your summer plumbing bill is to use less water without even noticing—and the right fixtures can do just that. Swapping out older plumbing fixtures for water-efficient models is a one-time investment that delivers long-term savings all year, especially during summer’s heavy-use months.

Look for Fixtures With the WaterSense Label:

The EPA’s WaterSense program certifies faucets, showerheads, toilets, and other products that use at least 20% less water than standard models and the same (or better) performance.

• Low-flow showerheads: Save water while still enjoying great pressure during those post-beach rinse-offs.
• Dual-flush toilets: Use the right amount of water for flushing depending on your needs.
• High-efficiency washing machines: Doing more laundry in summer? Upgrading to a water-saving washer can make a big difference.
• Smart water heaters: These units can learn your hot water usage habits and adjust heating patterns for energy and water savings.

Broadley’s can help you choose and professionally install the right water-saving upgrades for your home. Whether you’re remodeling your bathroom, updating your laundry setup, or just looking to save a few gallons, we’ve got solutions that fit your budget and your goals.

Bonus Water Bill Saving Tip: Schedule a Plumbing Inspection

One of the smartest ways to lower your water bill is to schedule a professional plumbing inspection. Hidden leaks, inefficient fixtures, and minor drips can easily waste hundreds of gallons of water each month, costing you money without realizing it.

During an inspection, a licensed plumber will check your entire system for leaks, corrosion, and outdated components, helping you catch small issues before they turn into expensive repairs. You’ll also get expert advice on upgrading to more water-efficient fixtures.

Not only does this help conserve water, but it also improves the performance and lifespan of your plumbing system. Regular inspections are a proactive step that can lead to long-term savings and peace of mind.

Make a Splash—and Save!

From water parks and splash pads to lazy rivers and beachside fun, there are endless ways to cool down and have a blast while minimizing your own home water usage! Check out some of these local spots to enjoy the best of both worlds: local water fun and lower water bills at home!

Splash Pads and Spraygrounds Near the Shore

Asbury Splash Park (Asbury Park): Located on the Asbury boardwalk at 950 Ocean Ave, this fenced splash pad offers features ranging from gentle sprayers to a giant tipping teacup—ideal for ages 18 months–12 years. Open daily during summer break.

1. Sea Spray Park (Seaside Park): Brand-new (2023) and just steps from the sand, this water playground includes slides, dumping buckets, and diverse spray features. Two-hour session tickets are available for pre-purchase online.
2. Splash Zone Waterpark (Wildwood Boardwalk): A full-fledged waterpark with slides, Flow Rider, lazy river, and cabanas. It is located at Schellenger Ave and the boardwalk and is ideal for older kids and teens.
3. Breakwater Beach Waterpark (Seaside Heights): Part of Casino Pier, this park offers wave pools, a lazy river, thrill slides, and a children’s area—perfect for the whole family.
4. Dorbrook Recreation Area Sprayground (Colts Neck): Recently renovated, this county-run sprayground features cascading domes, troughs, and climbing zones—great for all ages.
5. Aberdeen Veterans Memorial Splash Pad (Cliffwood Beach): Free and open daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day (10 AM–7 PM), this pad in Veterans Memorial Park makes for an easy local outing.

Don’t Let Summer Send Your Plumbing Bill Soaring

With a few easy adjustments and some proactive maintenance, it’s entirely possible to enjoy everything summer has to offer—without the sticker shock of a skyrocketing water bill.

If you’re ready to cut water waste, improve efficiency, or fix those sneaky leaks once and for all, Broadley’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help. Our trusted plumbing professionals serve Cape May Court House, and surrounding communities with expert repairs, upgrades, and inspections to keep your home running smoothly all summer long.

Contact us today at 609-875-2755 or request service online to schedule service or learn more about how we can help you save water and money!