Record heat increases water demands

High temperatures and reduced precipitation are increasing water demands on Dallas’ water
system. The average consumption for Dallas Water Utilities’ (DWU) customers is 380 million
gallons a day (MGD). The consumption on August 9, 2023 was 659.87 MGD.

The increased water usage puts additional pressure on water pipelines and can lead to more
water main breaks and leaks.  DWU currently has 11 crews responding 24-hours a day to water
main breaks and leaks. When a repair is underway, there may be intermittent service
interruptions that will impact customers.  Customers are notified of service interruptions through
individual notices left on the doors of residential and business customers (notices are not
delivered after 9 pm).

The Twice Weekly Watering program and enforcement associated with non-compliance is
currently in effect. Dallas Water Utilities is asking residents and businesses to conserve water
and help reduce water demands by:

• Adhering to the Twice Weekly Watering Schedule, details at https://bit.ly/3uPlGEa
• Remember, don’t water your yard between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. between April 1 to
  October 31
• Signing up for free watering advice at https://waterisawesome.com/weekly-watering-advice
• Sign up for a free irrigation audit at https://savedallaswater.com/rebates-and-incentives/free-irrigation-audits/
• Be sure your automatic sprinkler system does not water sidewalks, driveways, or the
  street. Also be sure that all the sprinkler heads are in good working order and that your
  system has no leaks
• Any water that is flowing from private or public property that is not normally viewed,
  should be reported to the City utilizing 311
• Report emergency water main leaks by calling 311
  – Crews will be dispatched for initial assessment, and repairs if needed will be
  prioritized and scheduled as soon as practicable
  

DWU continues to work in a multi-faceted, strategic approach to protect the system through
operations, conservation efforts, and our capital improvement program.  Additionally, DWU
currently invests between $140 to $160 million annually to replace and rehabilitate water and
wastewater mains.  These efforts have resulted in lower water main repairs per 100 miles, from
37 in FY 2011/12 to 19 FY 2021/22.