Paying too much for water each month? You’re not alone. Water bills can creep up quietly, especially if your home or business has hidden leaks or inefficient fixtures. Luckily, there are many ways—both simple and long-term—to reduce water usage and cut costs without sacrificing comfort.
Why Reducing Your Water Bill Matters
Saving water isn’t just about lowering monthly bills. It’s also:
- Environmentally responsible, helping preserve a precious resource
- A smart way to extend the life of your plumbing system
- Essential in drought-prone areas or during water restrictions
- A way to uncover hidden plumbing issues before they become costly
Even small changes can lead to significant savings over time.
How to Reduce Water Bill at Home
Fix Leaks Promptly
A dripping faucet or running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons a month. Address leaks as soon as you notice them. If you’re unsure where the leak is, consider this guide on how to tell if you have a water leak underground.
Install Water-Saving Fixtures
Use aerators on faucets and replace older fixtures with WaterSense-labeled models. These fixtures use up to 30% less water without affecting performance.
Use Low-Flow Showerheads and Toilets
Low-flow showerheads can reduce water use by 2.5 gallons per minute, while dual-flush toilets help manage usage per flush. This simple upgrade can yield major savings.
Turn Off Taps While Brushing or Washing
Leaving the tap running while brushing teeth or scrubbing dishes wastes water. Train yourself (and the family) to shut it off when not actively in use.
Run Full Loads in Dishwashers and Washing Machines
Wait until the dishwasher or washing machine is fully loaded before running a cycle. It uses the same water either way—so make every drop count.
Outdoor Water-Saving Tips
Water Lawn Early or Late in the Day
Watering at dawn or dusk reduces evaporation. Avoid watering during peak sun hours.
Use Smart Irrigation Systems
Smart sprinkler controllers adjust watering based on weather conditions, saving both water and money.
Choose Drought-Resistant Landscaping
Swap thirsty grass and plants for native, drought-tolerant varieties. Mulch flower beds to retain moisture and reduce watering frequency.
Long-Term Solutions to Save on Water Bill
Upgrade to Efficient Appliances
Modern dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters use far less water. Schedule an inspection with a licensed plumber to recommend eco-friendly upgrades.
Install a Rainwater Harvesting System
Collecting rainwater for irrigation, flushing, or even laundry (where legal) can significantly reduce your water dependence.
Monitor Usage with Smart Water Meters
These devices provide real-time water usage data, helping you spot spikes, leaks, or excessive consumption immediately. Some models can even shut off water automatically during leaks.
Bonus Tips: How Businesses Can Reduce Water Bills
- Schedule regular plumbing maintenance to catch leaks and inefficiencies early. See our commercial plumbing maintenance checklist for guidance.
- Install motion-sensor faucets in restrooms.
- Educate staff on water-saving practices.
- Upgrade commercial water heaters and insulation.
- Track utility data monthly to identify patterns or sudden changes.
Even small actions—like fixing a leak or adjusting a sprinkler schedule—can create long-term cost savings and sustainability benefits