How to Reduce Water Usage – 10 Different Ways to Save

February 20, 2023 · 4 min read

Water is an essential resource that is becoming increasingly scarce in many parts of the world. Reducing water usage in your home not only helps to conserve this valuable resource but can also save you money on your water bill. In this blog, we will discuss some practical ways to reduce water usage in your home.

10 Ways to Conserve Water

Fix Leaks

The first step in reducing water usage in your home is to fix any leaks. A leaky faucet or toilet can waste a surprising amount of water over time. A dripping faucet can waste up to 5 gallons of water per day, while a running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day. Check all of your faucets and toilets for leaks and fix them promptly.

Install Low-Flow Fixtures

Low-flow fixtures are designed to reduce water usage without sacrificing performance. Installing low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets can reduce water usage by up to 50%. Low-flow fixtures use less water per minute, which not only saves water but also reduces the energy required to heat the water.

Take Shorter Showers

The average shower uses 2.5 gallons of water per minute. Cutting your shower time by just 1-2 minutes can save a significant amount of water over time. Try using a shower timer to help you keep track of your time in the shower. You can also install a low-flow showerhead to reduce water usage even further.

Turn Off the Water When Brushing Your Teeth

Leaving the water running while brushing your teeth wastes a significant amount of water. Turning off the water while brushing your teeth can save up to 8 gallons of water per day. You can also fill a cup with water to rinse your mouth and toothbrush instead of using running water.

Only Run Full Loads

Whether you are using a dishwasher or a washing machine, only run full loads. Running half-full loads wastes water and energy. You can also adjust the water level settings on your washing machine to match the size of your load. This will help to reduce water usage and save energy.

Use a Bucket to Catch Water

When washing fruits and vegetables or waiting for your shower water to warm up, use a bucket to catch the water. You can use this water for watering plants or cleaning. This helps to reduce water waste and makes better use of a valuable resource.

Water Your Lawn and Garden Wisely

Watering your lawn and garden is necessary but can also use a lot of water. Try to water your lawn and garden during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. This will help to reduce evaporation and ensure that the water is absorbed by the plants. You can also use a drip irrigation system or a soaker hose to water your plants. This delivers water directly to the plant’s roots and reduces evaporation.

Use a Pool Cover

If you have a pool, consider using a pool cover. A pool cover not only helps to keep your pool clean but also reduces evaporation. This can save a significant amount of water over time, especially during the hot summer months.

Use a Car Wash

Washing your car at home can use up to 150 gallons of water. Consider using a car wash that recycles water. This not only saves water but also helps to prevent soapy water and other pollutants from entering the storm drain system.

Educate Your Family

Finally, one of the most effective ways to reduce water usage in your home is to educate your family. Talk to them about the importance of conserving water and encourage them to take small steps to reduce water usage. Set a good example by following these tips yourself and making water conservation a priority in your home.

Conserving water is crucially important here in Tucson. We all know it, and for the most part, practice it. But if you have a leaky pipe or need low-flow fixtures installed, we can help! Call Economy Plumbing Service. Our family-owned and operated business has over 27 years of experience helping Tucson residents with all their plumbing needs.

Remember – If Water Goes Through It Or To It, We Do It!

Sep 03, 2026

Tankless or Traditional: What’s the Best Water Heater Option for Your Home?

The decision between tankless and traditional models for replacement water heaters in Tucson can make a real difference in your daily comfort and long-term costs. Let's take a closer look at how each type works, which will help you pick the right fit for your household. Traditional Heaters more Traditional tank-style water heaters store a set amount of water, usually 40 to 80 gallons, in an insulated tank and keep it hot constantly using either gas or electricity. When you turn on the faucet, hot water flows from the tank while cold water refills it at the bottom. Tankless Heaters These heaters only give you hot water when you need it. Cold water passes through a heat exchanger inside the compact unit, and out comes hot water, nearly instantly. Pros of Both Let's consider the pros of the traditional heaters first: They're cheaper up front Installation is simpler because most homes already have the connections in place When it needs replacing, it's simple and often same-day They can handle a high flow rate (lots of usage simultaneously) The pros list for the tankless heater is also enticing: Less wasted energy from water being heated when it's not needed No running out of water, no matter how many people take showers Longer tank lifespan Takes up less space Cons of Both Here's the downsides to be aware of with traditional heaters: They use more energy (much more, in some cases) They run out of hot water, and you have to wait while they refill They're bulky and need more room for placement They need to be replaced sooner than tankless As for tankless heaters, be aware that: Installation costs are usually higher Initial purchase price is higher Flow rate is lower unless you invest in a bigger (or multiple) units Scale can form inside the heat exchanger faster than in a tank model Best Water Heaters in Tucson: Local Factors There are a few local factors that might also influence your decision. We have hard water, so that means scaling is more of an issue. Both types of heaters need to be flushed to prevent buildup, but the tankless might need it more often. We've also already got high energy bills with the hot summers we have here, so trimming that with a tankless model can make a big difference over time. Tankless water heaters pay for themselves in energy savings in about seven years, and if you take care of your model, it can last up to 20.If you're still weighing the options for your specific setup, give us a call at Economy Plumbing Service LLC here in Tucson at 520-885-3510. We're a family-owned business with more than seventeen years of honest, no-pressure service here in Tucson. We'll walk through your usage, space, and water conditions to help you choose the heater that actually fits your home and lifestyle. We also serve clients in Vail, Rita Ranch, Oro Valley, Green Valley, and surrounding areas.

Gas line repair and inspection in Pima County, AZ.

Aug 06, 2026

Are Your Gas Lines in Safe? Warning Signs You Can’t Ignore

We rely on our gas lines in Tucson to heat our homes, give us instant hot water, power our stoves, and more. Keeping your gas line safe is a serious responsibility, because the dangers of a problem in the gas line can be deadly. Here's some warning signs to look out for. Warning Signs That Gas Lines in Tucson Are in Trouble Emergency Signs more Some warning signs are emergencies, and you cannot ignore them. Call your gas provider or emergency services and leave the area immediately if: You smell a sulfurous odor in or immediately around your house People in the house are suddenly and inexplicably experiencing headaches, dizziness, nausea, or shortness of breath If gas is escaping into the house, it can cause you and your family serious physical harm. The gas, as you breathe it, begins to displace the oxygen in your blood. You gradually asphyxiate or suffocate if you are exposed to too much for too long. Non-Emergency There are other warning signs that are less immediately serious, but you need to pay attention to them, regardless, as they could quickly turn serious: Corrosion Always inspect your pipes regularly, and if you see rust or other corrosion on them, be sure to call a qualified contractor right away. There may also be an issue if you notice flaking or bubbling of paint near your gas lines or a lot of dampness and residue around the fittings. A professional can seal joints and even replace a bad section of pipe if needed. Hissing If you hear hissing near a gas appliance or a meter, it likely means that gas is escaping. Even a little bit of a leak can increase your bills, of course, and indoors, it can create a very dangerous condition. Contact a professional contractor right away to take a look. If it's a single appliance, turn off the gas to that appliance. Bigger Bills If your habits haven't really changed, but the cost of your gas bill keeps going up, try turning off all your gas appliances and writing down the meter reading. Then, wait for an hour or two and check the meter again. If it has gone up, you have a leak. Low Pressure If the flame on your stove or in your furnace doesn't have the power it should have, then you could have a leak somewhere in the line leading to that appliance, or there could be a blockage. There also could be a faulty regulator in the appliance itself or corrosion in the piping. If several appliances seem to be affected, then the issue could be farther down the line and could be either your responsibility or something that your utility company needs to deal with. A contractor can investigate the situation and help you figure out what's going on. If you're noticing any issues with your gas line, schedule an appointment with us at Economy Plumbing Service LLC in Tucson or call us 24/7 at 520-885-3510. We also serve Vail, Rita Ranch, Oro Valley, and Green Valley.

Jul 15, 2026

Signs Your Home Needs Repiping: When Tucson Homeowners Should Replace Old Pipes

Most homeowners do not think about their plumbing pipes until there is a major leak or a sudden drop in water pressure. However, aging pipes can create ongoing problems that repairs may only temporarily fix. If your Tucson home has older plumbing, whole house repiping may be the right solution to improve reliability and prevent future damage. Economy Plumbing Service, LLC helps homeowners identify when their plumbing system needs more than another repair. Knowing the warning signs can help you address problems before they become expensive emergencies. more What Is Whole House Repiping? Whole house repiping involves replacing old or damaged plumbing pipes throughout a home. Instead of repairing one failing section at a time, repiping replaces aging pipes with new plumbing materials designed to provide better water flow and long-term performance. Many older Tucson homes still have original plumbing systems that may be affected by corrosion, mineral buildup, and years of use. Signs Your Home May Need Repiping Frequent Pipe Leaks If you are regularly dealing with leaking pipes or repeated plumbing repairs, the problem may be the age and condition of your entire plumbing system. Multiple leaks in different areas of your home often indicate that the pipes are reaching the end of their lifespan. Low Water Pressure Low water pressure throughout your home can be a sign of restricted or deteriorating pipes. Mineral buildup from Arizona’s hard water can collect inside plumbing lines over time, reducing water flow and making faucets and fixtures less effective. Discolored Water Brown, rusty, or cloudy water may indicate corrosion inside older pipes. While occasional discoloration can happen for several reasons, ongoing issues should be inspected by a professional plumber. Noisy Pipes Banging, knocking, or rattling pipes can point to underlying plumbing problems. While some noises are minor, consistent sounds may indicate aging pipes or pressure issues that require attention. Older Plumbing System The age of your home is an important factor when considering repiping. Many older homes in Tucson have plumbing materials that can become more vulnerable to leaks, corrosion, and reduced performance over time. Why Tucson Homes Can Have Unique Plumbing Issues Arizona plumbing systems often deal with hard water, which can contribute to mineral buildup inside pipes. Over years, this buildup can restrict water flow and place additional strain on your plumbing system. For older Tucson homes, replacing outdated pipes can help improve water pressure, reduce repairs, and provide a more dependable plumbing system. Is Repiping Better Than Constant Repairs? If you are frequently repairing leaks or dealing with ongoing plumbing problems, replacing your pipes may be more cost-effective than continuing temporary fixes. A complete repipe can provide: Improved water pressure Fewer plumbing repairs Reduced risk of leaks More reliable water delivery Schedule a Repiping Inspection in Tucson, AZ If your home has frequent leaks, low water pressure, or aging pipes, Economy Plumbing Service, LLC can help determine whether repiping is the right option. Our Tucson plumbing team provides professional repiping services and whole house pipe replacement to help homeowners protect their homes and improve their plumbing systems. Contact Economy Plumbing Service, LLC today to schedule a plumbing inspection and find out if your Tucson home needs repiping.