Saving Money on Your Water Bill

Most of us know that utility bills seem to go up a little more every year. If this is the case with your water bill, here are a few things you can do to cut the costs and offset some and possibly all of that increase.

Step 1

Become nocturnal. Many jurisdictions bill using a schedule of peak and off-peak charges. Take advantage of the lower off peak rate by putting off some tasks until after dark. Run the dishwasher, do the laundry, and take your evening shower after the daily peak period is over. Over the course of a year, you will find the savings is worth the effort.

Step 2

Use the short cycle. If you already rinse your dishes before placing them in the dishwasher, there is no need to run them on the full cycle. Use one of the shorter cycles instead. You'll use less water and the dishes will be just as clean.

Step 3

Dig out the rain barrel. Position a barrel to catch rainwater as falls from the sky or runs out of your gutters. This water works just as well for washing the car, scrubbing down the patio and watering your flower or vegetable garden.

Step 4

Wrap your water pipes. Most of us have to run the hot water tap for short time before the water emerges hot. Part of the reason the water takes time to heat up is that it travels through cold pipes. Insulating the pipes will keep them warmer, minimizing the amount of water you have to run down the drain before you get hot water out of the tap.

Step 5

Change the setting on your washing machine. Too many people toss in a few items and forget to switch the setting from a large load to a small one. Taking a second to do this means the machine will use less water throughout the cycle, saving a few pennies each time you do the laundry.

Tips & Warnings

Check with your local water company for additional ideas relevant to your local area. Based on climate, there is a good chance that you can pick up at least a couple more tips.

Don't become a water miser. Use what you need, and don't feel guilty. The idea is to eliminate unnecessary waste, not complicate your life.