Utah is no stranger to drought conditions — and this year, with below-average snowfall and limited moisture in our watershed, many Salt Lake City and Utah County residents are feeling the effects. Dry conditions don’t just impact outdoor landscaping; they influence water supply, utility bills, and long-term plumbing health.
At Monkey Wrench Plumbing, we want to help you stay informed and prepared. Whether you’re focused on reducing your household consumption or protecting your home from hidden leaks and costly water damage, there are practical steps you can take today — starting with often-overlooked plumbing upgrades.
1. Install a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) – Simple, Effective, Overlooked
Many homes in Salt Lake City and the surrounding areas receive water at pressures much higher than necessary. High water pressure can lead to:
- Faster wear on fixtures and appliances
- Increased water use per fixture
- Persistent dripping faucets
- Reduced lifespan for washing machines and dishwashers
A Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) regulates your home’s incoming water pressure to a safer, more efficient level. This not only reduces unnecessary water use but also protects your entire plumbing system from premature stress and leaks.
Why PRVs matter in a drought:
- Lower pressure = less water use per wash, shower, or flush
- Reduced wear = fewer repairs and failures
- Better control protects expensive appliances
PRVs are a cost-effective, long-term investment that many homeowners overlook until a problem arises.
2. Monitor and Manage Water Usage with Smart Technology
Monitoring your water usage can dramatically influence how much water your household consumes. Tools like the Moen Flo Smart Water Monitor and Shutoff bring whole-home real-time visibility to your water supply.
How It Works
This device installs on your main water line and constantly tracks pressure and flow throughout your plumbing system. It distinguishes normal use from abnormal conditions — like leaks or pipe bursts — and sends alerts straight to your phone or email. It can even turn the water off automatically if a major issue is detected, helping prevent catastrophic water loss and flood damage.
Key Benefits for Utah Homes
- Real-time water usage tracking — see exactly how much water you’re using at any time.
- Leak and microleak detection — identifies drops as small as one per minute.
- Water waste reduction — can help reduce household water waste by identifying inefficiencies.
- Automatic shutoff — protects your home from major loss if a pipe bursts or a leak goes undetected.
- Usage history and trends via app — helpful for budgeting and conservation planning.
In a drought year, monitoring is a game-changer. When you know exactly where your water goes, you can make informed decisions about landscaping, appliance use, and daily habits.
3. Quick Wins You Can Do Today
While PRVs and smart monitoring systems are powerful investments, there are simpler ways to reduce water consumption immediately:
Fix Minor Leaks Promptly
A slow drip from a faucet or toilet can waste gallons every day — and at current rates, that adds up fast.
Shorten Showers
A few extra minutes per shower means hundreds of gallons per month per person.
Use High-Efficiency Fixtures
Installing low-flow showerheads and aerated faucets reduces water use without sacrificing performance.
Run Full Loads Only
Whether it’s dishes or laundry, filling the machine before use decreases total water consumption.
4. Long-Term Benefits of Efficient Plumbing
Reducing water consumption isn’t just about conservation — it’s about protecting your home and wallet. Smart plumbing improvements:
- Lower monthly water bills
- Reduce stress on aging water heaters and pipes
- Prevent costly water damage from hidden leaks
- Add value to your home
- Help your family participate in regional conservation efforts
Utah’s drought conditions are a shared challenge — and every drop saved counts.
Why Professional Installation Matters
Upgrading your home with a PRV, smart monitoring system, or other water-saving tools is not just a DIY project. A licensed plumber from Monkey Wrench Plumbing will:
- Evaluate your home’s specific water needs
- Size and install equipment correctly
- Test performance and ensure code compliance
- Provide ongoing support and maintenance recommendations
These systems work best when integrated properly with your existing plumbing — and professional installation makes the difference between functioning and optimized.
Start Saving Water and Protect Your Home Today
Whether you’re reacting to record low snowfall or preparing for future water restrictions, smart plumbing upgrades will help your home adapt. From cost-effective solutions like a pressure reducing valve to advanced monitoring with the Moen Flo Smart Water Monitor and Shutoff, taking action now can lead to long-term savings and peace of mind.
At Monkey Wrench Plumbing, we’re here to help you find the right solution for your home — honestly, professionally, and with long-term results in mind.
