Hawaii households pay an average of $70 per month on their water bill. If your water bill is too high, we’ve got some ways to lower your water bill. Find out why your water bill is so high and do good for our ‘aina at the same time.
Water Bill Higher Than Normal?
Here are some ways to save on your water bill:
In the House
- Only run the dishwasher once you have a full load. The average dishwasher uses 6 gallons of water per load while energy star rated machines average 4 gallons.
- Wait until the washing machine is full before running a load. The average washing machine uses 20 gallons per load while energy star machines average 14 gallons. Washing in cold water can save up to $60 per year on your electricity bill as well.
- Install a dual flush or low flow toilet. Water-sense toilets use 1.28 gallons per flush while toilets made prior to 1992 use an average of 3.5 gallons per flush.
- Fix leaking faucets, toilets, and pipes. A leaky faucet that drips once per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons per year.
- Use a low flow shower head rated to less than 2.5 gallons per minute.
- Install faucet aerators which can reduce water usage by 30% to 1.5 gallons per minute.
- Monitor your water bill. Sharp increases in cost could indicate that you have a new leak.
- Turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth can save more than 2,000 gallons of water per year.
- Showers use less water than baths unless you take long showers. For example a 15 minute shower with a low flow shower head (2 GPM) will use the same amount of water as a bath.
Landscape Solutions
- Leaking of malfunctioning lawn irrigation system.
- Broken or misdirected sprinkler heads.
- Install rain sensors on irrigation systems.
- Plant native plants that are tolerant to your environment with less irrigation.
- Choose sprinklers that deliver big drops of water close to the ground. Misters evaporate before hitting the ground.
Signs Your Irrigation System is Leaking
Lookout for these indications that your yard is getting too much water:
- High Water Bill: An increase in your water bill could be an indicator that your irrigation needs some attention. Look out for leaks, malfunctioning sprinkler heads, and the programming on your irrigation system.
- Wet Spots on the Lawn: A properly functioning irrigation system shouldn’t create mud, wet concrete, or pools of standing water. Overwatering is bad for your plants, your wallet, and the environment.
- Mushrooms: Fungus popping up in your lawn can indicate that you’re overwatering and it’s time to adjust something in your irrigation system or programming.
Need help maintaining your landscaping and irrigation system? We love helping people lower their water bill. Give Us a Call.
