Almost 70% of household water use goes indoors to toilet flushing, laundry, showering and so on. Calculating your indoor water use may help you identify ways to conserve water and start saving money. Water conservation begins with you! Being conscious of your water use, changing water-wasting habits, replacing water-guzzling fixtures with more efficient models, and repairing leaks all contribute to making a positive difference to the individual and the community.
Ways to Save
Water conservation includes both water saving fixtures and changing behavior. Both of these reduces drinking water demand and the amount of water diverted from the source. Lower demand for drinking water also means reduced water and wastewater treatment costs because less water is pumped, purified, and pushed through the system. Try these Indoor Water Use Tips (PDF).
Appliances, Fixtures, and Devices
Replacing water-guzzling fixtures can reduce home water consumption by up to 27 gallons per person per day. The City of Bellingham offers a rebate program to our water customers.
- The City is an EPA WaterSense partner. An easy way to identify water-efficient products is to look for the WaterSense label on toilets, faucets, and showerheads: these products perform well, help save money, and the program encourages innovation in manufacturing.
- When buying water-related household appliances, look for ones that have earned the ENERGY STAR rating. High-efficiency plumbing fixtures and appliances save about 30% of indoor water use and can yield substantial savings on water and energy bills.
- The City offers a rebate program for certain water efficient toilets and washing machines.
Repair Leaks
Leaky pipes, toilets and faucets are often the biggest water wasters around your home. On average, leaks account for nearly 10,000 gallons of water wasted per home, per year–enough to fill a backyard swimming pool.
Fortunately, checking for leaks is simple and repairs are usually minimal. While wet and audible leaks are most common, sometimes leaks can be hidden and silent. The links below provide some easy tips to help you detect and repair a leaky faucet or toilet.
- Fix a Leak and Save (PDF)
- Winterize Your Water System (PDF)
- Request toilet leak detection tablets from the City – free to our utility customers by calling (360) 778-7700 or email askpw@cob.org
More Information
Additional resources:
- H2OUSE, Water Saver Home
- Winterize Your Water System (PDF)
- Water Consumption Calculator
- Water Utility
- Water Metering Program
- Water Conservation Rebate Program
- Resources for Students and Teachers
- Alliance for Water Efficiency
- AWWA
- Whatcom Water Alliance
Please contact the Operations Division of the Public Works Department if you would like more information about water conservation.
