Tips to Save Water
- Don’t let the water run while you’re brushing your teeth or shaving.
- Take showers instead of baths.
- Only run the dishwasher when it’s completely full.
- Use the appropriate water level in the washing machine.
- Sweep driveways, steps, et cetera rather than hosing them off.
- Wash the car with a bucket of water instead of using the hose.
- When using a hose, use an automatic shut-off nozzle.
- Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses.
- Water the yard or garden in early morning or late evening.
- Avoid watering when it’s windy.
- Plant flowers, trees, and vegetables suitable for your climate.
- Collect rain water.
- Repair leaks as soon as possible.
- Track your water usage via your water bill and investigate unusual increases.
Water Leaks — Do I have one?
Many people think they don’t have any water leaks because they don’t see puddles. However, the soil in Wilhoit is such that leaking water often seeps below ground, showing no sign of trouble on the surface. Periodically, customers should check for leaks. Turn off all the water in your house and on your property. Go to your water meter. If the triangle (red or blue) moves at all, water is running through the meter. That means there’s a leak and it’s time to find it.
If you can turn off the water only to the house, do so and recheck the water meter. If the triangle stopped moving, it means the leak is in or under the house. If the triangle is still moving, the leak is somewhere outside. If it’s a manufactured home, check underneath the house. That’s a common problem area.
My Water Bill Is Reasonable
People who move to Wilhoit often comment that they paid much more for water where they used to live and they’re happy their current water bills are so reasonable. However, this satisfaction can hide water leaks. The water bill might actually be high because of a leak, but it seems low compared to what you were used to paying. So check for leaks! Water is truly life, and we can’t afford to waste it (and you may save money, as well)!
What is “Average” Water Use?
“Statistics show that U.S. consumers average between 100 to 160 gallons, per person, per day for all uses. City of Prescott averages 102 gallons per person, per day. Usage can vary greatly based on an individual’s particular habits. Between 2 quarts and 1 gallon are consumed for cooking, drinking water and prepared beverages such as coffee and tea. The remainder includes household cleaning, bathing, laundry, outdoor watering and more. Most new low use toilets use about 1.5 gallons per flush, compared to older ones using about 4 gallons per flush. Showers can use anywhere from 2 to 5 gallons per minute and a bath can consume 35+ gallons per use depending on tub size. Outdoor usage generally accounts for the largest volume of water consumed especially during Spring and Summer months.” (https://www.prescott-az.gov/link/ccr-ry2023.pdf)
Water Footprint Calculator
Determine your water footprint with the Water Footprint Calculator. Note that your final water footprint score includes not only the water you use that flows from the tap but also the water used in making the items you buy and consume, such as food and clothing. A person’s “unseen” water use is often staggeringly high.