Water is one of those things we take for granted—until the bill comes in and shocks us. The reality is, with a few simple tweaks to your daily habits, you can significantly lower your water bill without sacrificing comfort. Whether you live in a house or an apartment, there are ways to make your water usage more efficient, environmentally friendly, and, most importantly, affordable. Ready to dive into some easy ways to cut water costs? Let’s get started.
Fix Leaks ASAP
It might seem like a small drip here or there, but leaky faucets and running toilets are silent bill killers. A faucet that drips once per second wastes over 3,000 gallons of water a year, while a running toilet can waste even more. That’s a lot of water, and it’s costing you money. Fixing leaks isn’t difficult, and in most cases, you can do it yourself with a few tools and a YouTube tutorial. If you’re not the DIY type, a plumber can quickly handle it.
What’s important is that you act fast. The longer you let a leak continue, the more water you’re wasting and the higher your bill will be.
Upgrade to Low-Flow Fixtures
One of the easiest ways to reduce water usage is by upgrading to low-flow fixtures like showerheads, faucets, and toilets. These fixtures are designed to use less water while still providing enough pressure for daily tasks. A low-flow showerhead, for example, uses about half the water of a regular one without making you feel like you’re standing under a trickle.
Most low-flow fixtures are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. If you’re not ready to replace all your fixtures at once, start with the ones you use most frequently, like your showerhead and kitchen faucet. This small investment will pay for itself in water bill savings over time.
Shorten Your Showers
We all love a long, relaxing shower, but cutting down on your shower time can make a big difference in your water usage. The average shower uses about 2.5 gallons of water per minute, so shaving off even a couple of minutes can save you a significant amount over time.
Here’s a tip: set a timer on your phone for five minutes when you shower. Not only will this help you be more mindful of how long you’re in there, but it’ll also keep your water usage in check. Plus, shorter showers are better for your skin, which makes this a win-win.
Wash Full Loads of Laundry
When it comes to your laundry, size matters. Your washing machine uses the same amount of water whether it’s washing a small load or a full one. By waiting until you have a full load to wash, you’re using your water more efficiently.
If you’re in the market for a new washer, consider investing in a high-efficiency model. These machines use less water and energy, saving you money in both areas. Plus, high-efficiency washers are gentler on your clothes, so they’ll last longer, which is another cost-saving benefit.
Don’t Let the Water Run
This might sound like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how much water goes to waste while brushing your teeth, washing dishes, or even waiting for the water to heat up. When you’re brushing your teeth or shaving, turn off the faucet until you’re ready to rinse.
In the kitchen, try to fill the sink or a basin with soapy water instead of letting the tap run when washing dishes. You’ll be amazed at how much less water you use. If you have a dishwasher, use it! Dishwashers tend to use less water than washing dishes by hand, especially when you’re only running full loads.
Use a Rain Barrel
If you live in an area with a decent amount of rainfall, using a rain barrel can be a great way to save on water for your garden or lawn. Rain barrels collect water from your gutters and store it for future use, so you don’t have to rely on your garden hose or sprinkler system as much.
The water you collect can be used to water plants, wash your car, or even clean outdoor areas. Plus, it’s free! A rain barrel is easy to set up and maintain, and over time, it can help you reduce your outdoor water usage significantly.
Time Your Lawn Watering
Watering your lawn or garden can be one of the biggest contributors to a high water bill, especially during the summer months. Timing is everything when it comes to outdoor watering. Watering in the early morning or late evening prevents evaporation, so your plants get the full benefit of the water you’re using.
If you have an automatic sprinkler system, make sure it’s set to run during these times. Additionally, check for leaks or misaligned sprinkler heads, as these can waste water. Also, consider planting drought-resistant plants that require less water to thrive.
Install Water-Saving Appliances
Much like upgrading to low-flow fixtures, investing in water-efficient appliances can significantly cut down your water usage. Appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and even toilets are now available in models that use less water but still get the job done.
Look for appliances with the Energy Star or WaterSense labels, which indicate that they meet certain standards for water and energy efficiency. While these appliances might cost a little more upfront, they’ll save you money on your water bill (and energy bill) in the long run.
Mulch Your Garden
If you have a garden, one of the easiest ways to conserve water is by using mulch. Mulch helps the soil retain moisture, so you don’t have to water as often. It also keeps your plants healthy by regulating soil temperature and reducing weed growth.
Mulch comes in many forms, from wood chips to straw, so you can choose what works best for your garden. Not only will you save water, but you’ll also have a healthier, more vibrant garden as a result.
Use a Bucket in the Shower
This tip might sound a little old school, but it works. Place a bucket in the shower to catch the water that would otherwise go down the drain while you’re waiting for it to warm up. You can then use this water to flush the toilet, water plants, or clean around the house.
It’s a simple habit that requires little effort but can make a noticeable difference in your overall water usage.
Switch to a Water-Efficient Toilet
Toilets account for nearly 30% of the water used in the average home, making them one of the largest water wasters. If your toilet is more than a decade old, it’s probably using far more water per flush than necessary.
Switching to a water-efficient toilet can cut your water usage dramatically. Dual-flush toilets, which allow you to use less water for liquid waste and more for solid waste, are a great option. If replacing your toilet isn’t in the budget right now, you can place a water-filled plastic bottle in the toilet tank to reduce the amount of water used per flush.
Collect Cold Water for Other Uses
When you’re waiting for water to warm up in the kitchen or bathroom, don’t let the cold water go to waste. Keep a jug or a container nearby to collect it. This water can then be used for tasks like watering plants, filling your pet’s bowl, or cleaning.
It’s an easy way to reduce waste without much effort on your part, and over time, it can help lower your water bill.
Reuse Greywater
Greywater is gently used water from sinks, showers, and washing machines. While this water isn’t safe for drinking, it can be reused for tasks like watering plants or flushing the toilet. Setting up a greywater system in your home can help you make the most of the water you’re already using.
Before installing a greywater system, check local regulations, as some areas have restrictions on its use. However, if it’s allowed in your area, it can be a great way to conserve water and reduce your water bill.
Educate Your Household
The last and possibly most important step in cutting water costs is getting everyone in your household on board. Small actions from each family member can add up to big savings over time. Talk to your family about turning off the tap when not in use, taking shorter showers, and being mindful of water usage throughout the day.
You might even turn it into a game—who can use the least water in a week? Creating a water-conscious household ensures that the habits you adopt stick around for the long term.
These simple lifestyle changes don’t require a major overhaul, but they do require a shift in mindset. By being mindful of your daily water usage and making small adjustments, you’ll not only see a reduction in your water bill, but you’ll also be doing your part to conserve a valuable resource. Water conservation is about making smart choices, and the best part is, it benefits both your wallet and the environment.
So why not start today? Try incorporating a few of these tips into your routine and watch your water bill shrink while you maintain a comfortable, water-efficient lifestyle.