Although our focus may turn to energy efficiency in the winter, it's also a great time to make indoor water efficiency home improvements. The sooner you get going, the sooner the savings start.

• Toilets: These are by far the main source of water use inside the home, accounting for nearly 30 percent of an average home's indoor water consumption. Older, inefficient toilets also happen to be a major source of leaks. Replacing these toilets with WaterSense high-efficiency toilets could save more than 15,000 gallons each year. With our rebate, your investment is minimal.
  
• Showerheads: While the savings with these fixtures can’t match that with toilets, they are definitely worth considering – particularly if a bathroom remodel is on your to-do list. The average household could save more than 2,300 gallons per year by installing WaterSense showerheads. Since these water savings reduce demands on water heaters, households also save energy. In fact, a household could save 300 kilowatt hours of electricity annually, enough to power its television use for about a year.
  
• Faucet aerators: By installing WaterSense bathroom sink faucets or faucet accessories, an average household can save more than 500 gallons each year. These simple devices can cost as little as a few dollars and reduce flow rates by about a half gallon per minute.

Eliminate leaks

Depending on its size, a household water leak could cost you a few dollars or many more a month. Fortunately, most leaks in and around the home are easy to fix with basic tools, inexpensive parts, and a little know-how. Two easy fixes are faucets and toilets.

Not all leaks are obvious, so it's important to periodically check your water meter. Read the meter before and after a two-hour period when water is not being used. If the meter does not read exactly the same, it's likely you have a leak. 

Check your water pressure

Forty to 60 psi is generally an ideal range for indoor fixtures, while most sprinkler systems operate most efficiently at about 30 psi.

A recent study showed an annual water savings of about 6 percent for homes that received water service at lower pressures compared to homes that received water service at higher pressures. A reduction in water pressure can save water by reducing flow volumes; and the likelihood of leaking water pipes, leaking water heaters, and dripping faucets.

You can purchase a water pressure test gauge at your local home supply store, and they are easily used by attaching them to a faucet, shower stem or outdoor hose bib. We recommend using a qualified plumber if you have a problem with, or are considering adjusting, an existing pressure-reducing valve (PRV).

Plan your landscape

Okay, so technically it's still winter, but inside it's warm and cozy. Take advantage of indoor days by reading up on landscaping books, learning more about plants suited for our climate and sketching out plans. Be sure to start first with our list of 2012 free xeriscape classes. We've invited some of the region's experts to share the ins and outs of planning, implementing and maintaining your xeriscape.

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