08/13/2026
Now that the Village of Swanton has upgraded to AMI water meters, we are able to see and track a customer's usage daily. Because of this, while doing billing, our billing specialist see's high usage consumption and has been calling our customers to give them a heads up. Some have had leaking toilets, faucets or an outside hose left on. Below are some tips that will help our customers be more aware of their usage. This information came from Google:
Conserving water involves using it efficiently at home, outdoors, and in daily habits, which can save thousands of gallons annually while protecting the environment.
Indoor Water-Saving Strategies
• Fix leaks promptly: Household leaks can waste thousands of gallons per year, so check faucets, toilets, and pipes regularly and repair any leaks immediately (EPA).
• Upgrade fixtures: Install WaterSense-labeled faucets, showerheads, and toilets. A modern low-flow toilet can save up to 13,000 gallons per year, and aerators on faucets can save hundreds of gallons annually.
• Shorten showers: Limit showers to 5 minutes or less, as showerheads can use 2 gallons per minute, saving significant water over time.
• Turn off taps when not in use: While brushing teeth, shaving, or washing dishes, turn off the water to prevent unnecessary waste.
• Use dishwashers and washing machines efficiently: Run full loads and consider high-efficiency models, which use far less water than older appliances.
Outdoor Water-Saving Strategies
• Water gardens efficiently: Use drip irrigation or water early in the morning or late evening to reduce evaporation.
• Collect rainwater: Rain barrels can capture runoff for garden use, reducing municipal water demand.
• Landscape wisely: Choose drought-resistant plants and reduce lawn areas to minimize outdoor water use.
Behavioral and Systemic Tips
• Reuse water: Graywater from sinks, showers, and washing machines can irrigate plants or be used for other non-potable purposes.
• Rethink daily habits: Avoid flushing small trash items down the toilet and consider dual-flush toilets or adjustable flappers to reduce per-flush water use.
• Monitor water use: Leak detection devices and regular maintenance can help identify hidden water waste.
Key Takeaways
Even small changes, like turning off the tap or shortening showers, can save hundreds of gallons per month. Combining efficient fixtures, mindful habits, and outdoor water management not only reduces your water bill but also contributes to global water conservation efforts, helping communities facing water scarcity.
