Reduce Your Water Bill

Check toilets for leaks on a regular basis.

A toilet manufactured before 1994 may use thousands of gallons more per year than newer models. Consider either installing a new toilet or placing a “toilet dam” in the tank. If placed properly, a toilet dam can save hundreds of gallons each year.

• A toilet dam can be a plastic shield (available from a hardware or plumbing supply store) or a homemade device (such as a plastic bottle filled with pebbles). The point is to take up space in the tank or block off a portion so that that it requires less water.
• Toilet dams should never interfere with flushing/plumbing mechanisms, and should be checked regularly to ensure that they do not.
• A brick, if placed in a toilet tank, can release chemicals into the water that may damage the flushing mechanisms.

When purchasing a new toilet, look for the EPA WaterSense label. WaterSense labeled toilets use at least 20 percent less water than standard toilets on the current market, while meeting specific performance criteria.

Do not put trash in the toilet. This not only wastes water, but may also cause problems in sewage systems and septic tanks.

A water-efficient showerhead will pay for itself in a few months.

Taking showers instead of baths will save significant amounts of water. Consider taking shorter showers.

Install flow restrictors in faucets.

Do not leave the faucet running when brushing teeth or shaving.

• These actions may also reduce sewer bills while lowering energy bills related to heating the water.

When washing dishes:

• Run the dishwasher only when fully loaded.
• Use the economy setting on the dishwasher (if it has one).
• Many newer models of dishwashers offer different cycles, allowing you to use them most efficiently.
• An energy-efficient dishwasher is likely to be water-efficient.
• If you wash dishes by hand, fill the basin with soapy water and quickly rinse the dishes under a slowly moving stream from the faucet.
• Depending on the type of dishwasher you own, hand washing may not necessarily be more efficient.

Garbage disposals require large amounts of water. Consider composting food or putting it in the garbage, instead.

If you run the faucet while waiting for water to get hot, consider collecting it in glasses or a pitcher instead of pouring it down the drain. The collected water can be used for other things, such as watering plants, drinking, etc.

If you want cold drinking water, keep a pitcher in the refrigerator.

Do not use running water to thaw meat or other frozen foods. Defrost food in the refrigerator or in your microwave.

Insulate your water heater and maintain it regularly, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Insulate your hot water pipes. If the water stays warm while in the pipes, you will not have to run as much water to get it to the desired temperature.

Wash only full loads of clothing and set your washing machine to the proper water level. Remember that many newer washing machines offer water-efficient features.

Energy-efficient appliances are likely to be water-efficient, too. When shopping for appliances, look for the Energy Star label.

Look for water-efficient models when buying a filtering or water softening system.

Locate the master shut-off valve in your home or business. Be prepared to use it in case of a burst pipe or other emergency.

Water the lawn efficiently, and learn more about home lawn irrigation from Purdue University.

• Water in the early morning or after dark to minimize evaporation. The best time, generally, is between 4:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. unless your utility requests otherwise.
• Water only when necessary. (If you walk across the grass and leave footprints, your lawn needs to be watered.)
• Do not water on windy days or just after it has rained.
• Avoid using a sprinkler that sprays a fine mist.
• Adjust sprinklers to only water the lawn and not the building, sidewalk or street.
• If you use an underground sprinkler system:
  • Learn about new technology for automatic systems, including sensors and "smart controllers" that can turn the system off if the soil has had enough water.
  • Turn it off when it rains (especially if it is on a timer).
  • Maintain it regularly. Check valves for leaks. Check sprinkler heads regularly and adjust them as needed.
  • Adjust it to meet seasonal demands.

Raise your lawn mower blade to the highest setting, especially during dry weather. Closely cutting the grass makes roots work harder, requiring more water.

When washing the car, use soap and water from a bucket. Use a hose with a shut-off nozzle for the final rinse.

Use a broom to clean off your driveway. If you must use a hose, use one with a high-pressure, on/off nozzle.

Properly-done landscaping can save water.

• Plant in the spring or autumn.
• Check with your local nursery for recommendations on trees, shrubs and plants that need less water.
• Using a layer of mulch around plants can reduce evaporation and promote plant growth.