Just when homeowners have become fed up with high temperatures and scorched lawns, a report from the National Resources Defense Council (PDF) says that more than 1,100 counties—or more than one-third of those in the contiguous 48 states—will face higher risks of water shortages by mid-century. Of those, 400 counties in 14 states are of particular concern. The cause, says the NRDC, is global warming.
 
Whether or not you accept the concept of climate change, there’s no getting around the August-like weather many of us have experienced since late spring. But there’s much you can do to cut back on your overall water usage and still sprinkle your lawn sparingly from time to time. The Environmental Protection Agency says you can start saving by using only the water you need. That may seem obvious but how many of us leave the water running while we're brushing our teeth, shaving or washing dishes? Thought so. (Check the EPA's website for more tips.)

You can make more meaningful savings when replacing a washing machine or dishwasher. The latest models use much less water than older units with comparable capacities. Check out our free buying advice for washers and dishwashers as well as our Ratings (for subscribers) of front-load washers, top-load washers, and dishwashers. We also have reports on water-efficient yet high-performing toilets and showerheads.
 
Our tips for helping your lawn beat the heat also bear repeating here. They include raising your mower’s deck height. Taller grass shoots provide better shade for the soil beneath and require less water. Taller grass also has longer roots, which can absorb water deeper in the ground. Use sprinklers in the early morning when there’s less wind to blow the water and less sunlight to evaporate it.

—Ed Perratore