7 Water-Saving Tips for Colorado Homes

Colorado is facing its worst drought in over 1,000 years. Water is scarce, and every drop counts. Here are 7 actionable ways to save water at home, cut utility bills, and protect the environment:

Fix Leaks: A dripping faucet can waste 3,000 gallons/year. Check pipes, toilets, and faucets regularly.
Upgrade Fixtures: Install WaterSense-labeled toilets, showerheads, and aerators to save thousands of gallons annually.
Choose Native Plants: Replace thirsty lawns with drought-resistant plants, which use 60–80% less water.
Try Xeriscaping: Design your yard for Colorado’s climate and cut outdoor water use by up to 75%.
Improve Irrigation: Use drip systems, water early in the morning, and avoid overwatering.
Adopt Daily Habits: Turn off taps, shorten showers, and only run full loads in dishwashers and washing machines.
Use Rebates: Take advantage of local programs offering rebates for efficient appliances, toilets, and irrigation systems.

Quick Comparison Table

Method	Water Savings	Cost
Fixing Leaks	10% on water bills	Low (DIY or plumber)
Water-Efficient Fixtures	20–60% indoor water use	$100–$1,000 per fixture
Native Plants	60–80% less outdoor water	$15–$20/sq. ft.
Xeriscaping	50–75% outdoor water use	$5–$20/sq. ft.
Drip Irrigation	30–80% irrigation savings	$0.50–$1/ft.

These steps can save thousands of gallons of water and hundreds of dollars annually. Start small with fixes and habits, then scale up to bigger projects like xeriscaping or appliance upgrades. Colorado’s water future depends on your actions today.

How to Conserve Water | National Geographic

1. Fix Leaky Faucets, Toilets, and Pipes

Did you know a single dripping faucet can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water each year? That’s enough for more than 180 showers! And household leaks in general? They can add up to over 10,000 gallons annually, which is a big hit to both your wallet and the environment – especially for Colorado residents dealing with the state’s worst drought in over a thousand years. Even a small 1/16-inch pipe leak can waste a staggering 822 gallons in just one day.

"Hidden leaks, in particular, can be silent troublemakers, causing significant damage before you’re even aware of their presence." – Force Home Services

How to Spot Leaks
Catching leaks early can save you a lot of trouble. Start by comparing recent water bills – any unexplained spikes could be a red flag. Another trick is to turn off all water sources and check your meter. If it’s still running, you likely have a leak. Other signs to watch for include damp or discolored walls, ceilings, or floors; unusual hissing or dripping sounds when no water is running; and mold growth in unexpected places.

Fixing the Leaks
Once you’ve found the culprit, tackle the issue head-on to prevent further water loss. For example, toilet leaks can waste up to 5 gallons per minute. To check for one, drop a dye tablet or a few drops of food coloring into the toilet tank. If the color shows up in the bowl without flushing, you’ll need to replace the flapper – a simple fix with an affordable repair kit.

Leaky faucets are another common issue. Replacing worn-out washers or using pipe tape on loose fittings can stop those annoying drips. Don’t forget to check showerhead connections, too – sometimes tightening them is all it takes.

If you’re dealing with minor pipe leaks, temporary solutions like pipe repair tape or epoxy can hold things together until a permanent fix is possible. Tightening loose connections might also solve smaller problems. However, for bigger jobs – like sewer line issues or major pipe damage – it’s wise to call in the pros, especially when permits are required.

By addressing leaks, you can save around 10% on your water bills. Make leak checks part of your regular home maintenance routine, just like testing smoke detectors. It’s a small habit that benefits both your budget and Colorado’s precious water supply.

Once you’ve tackled leaks, you’re ready to take the next step: upgrading to water-efficient fixtures.

2. Install Water-Efficient Fixtures and Appliances

Switching to water-efficient fixtures and appliances is a practical way to cut down on water usage and lower your monthly bills, all while maintaining the performance you need.

Start with Your Toilet
Did you know that toilets account for nearly 30% of household water use? Older models can use anywhere from 3.5 to 7 gallons per flush, but modern high-efficiency toilets reduce that to just 1.6 gallons – or even as little as 0.6 gallons per flush with the latest smart models. By replacing an outdated toilet with a WaterSense-labeled model, a family of four can save an impressive 16,000 gallons of water annually.

Upgrade Your Showerheads and Faucets
Showers make up about 30% of a typical home’s water use. Older showerheads can use as much as 8 gallons per minute, while low-flow versions use only 2.5 gallons per minute or less. By installing low-flow showerheads, the average U.S. household can save 2,900 gallons of water each year. Similarly, WaterSense-labeled faucet aerators can help families save nearly 3,500 gallons of water annually, along with 410 kilowatt-hours of electricity.

Replace Your Washing Machine
Older washing machines are notoriously water-intensive, using 35 to 50 gallons per load. Newer front-loading machines, however, use only 20 to 25 gallons per load. These upgrades not only conserve water but can also lead to noticeable savings on utility bills.

Comparison of Old vs. Efficient Fixtures	Old Model Usage	Efficient Model Usage	Annual Savings
Toilet	3.5–7 gallons per flush	1.6 gallons per flush	Up to 16,000 gallons
Washing Machine	35–50 gallons per load	20–25 gallons per load	Varies by usage
Showerhead	3–8 gallons per minute	2.5 gallons per minute	2,900+ gallons

Take Advantage of Colorado Rebates
Colorado homeowners can make these upgrades more affordable with rebate programs. For example, the Town of Erie offers $100 rebates for WaterSense-labeled high-efficiency toilets (limit 2 per household) for purchases made in 2025. Colorado Springs Utilities has increased its rebates for efficient toilets in 2025, and Columbine Water and Sanitation District customers can receive up to $100 in rebates through Denver Water’s Conservation Rebate Incentive Program. These programs make it easier for residents to adopt sustainable practices, especially during ongoing drought conditions.

Smart Technology Integration
Modern water-efficient fixtures now include smart technology that takes conservation to the next level. According to WaterSense, homeowners who switch to smart systems can save up to 30% on their annual water bills. These advanced fixtures allow you to customize water flow rates and temperature settings while offering real-time data on your usage.

"These smart plumbing fixture technologies not only provide savings to homeowners. They’re changing the way we manage water in our homes."

By choosing WaterSense-labeled fixtures and ENERGY STAR-rated appliances, families can reduce their water and energy use by up to 20%, saving as much as $380 annually. In Colorado, where water resources are under pressure, these upgrades deliver immediate financial savings and contribute to long-term conservation efforts.

Next, explore outdoor water-saving strategies.

3. Choose Native and Drought-Resistant Plants

Once you’ve tackled indoor water-saving measures, it’s time to turn your attention outside. Colorado’s climate – with its high altitude, intense sunlight, and unpredictable temperature swings – makes traditional landscaping a real challenge when it comes to conserving water. Native plants, however, are a game-changer. They not only save water but also thrive in these conditions, requiring far less maintenance.

Why Native Plants Are a Smart Choice

Native and drought-resistant plants use 60 to 80 percent less water compared to non-native species. This makes them an excellent option for Colorado homeowners aiming to lower their water bills. Unlike exotic plants that struggle to adapt, native species have spent thousands of years evolving to handle Colorado’s dry air, strong UV rays, and extreme temperatures.

Fun fact: Colorado is the only U.S. state with an official state cactus. This speaks volumes about how well drought-resistant plants can adapt to the local environment. Beyond water savings, these plants also cut down on maintenance costs – by as much as 80% when used in place of traditional grass lawns.

Plant Select® and Expert Recommendations

In January 2025, John Murgel, a horticulture expert with CSU Extension, highlighted 20 flowering perennials that are perfect for Colorado’s diverse climate. These hardy plants can withstand intense sun, freezing winters, and even hailstorms. Best of all, they need little to no extra watering and fit seamlessly into any garden style.

Another excellent resource is Plant Select®, which offers a collection of waterwise, garden-tested plants specifically designed for the High Plains and Intermountain regions. High Country Gardens, a trusted authority on drought-tolerant plants, notes:

"We specialize in cold-hardy, drought tolerant plants that will thrive in Colorado yards."

These options make it easier than ever to create a resilient and beautiful landscape.

Top Plant Picks for Colorado Landscapes

Here are some standout plants that combine beauty and water efficiency:

Plant Name	Bloom Time	Soil Preference	Special Traits
Blue Flax (Linum lewisii)	Late spring to early summer	Well-drained soil	Attracts butterflies
Blanket Flower (Gaillardia aristata)	Summer to early fall	Sandy or loamy soil	Deer resistant
Rocky Mountain Penstemon (Penstemon strictus)	Mid to late summer	Dry to medium moisture, well-drained	Drought tolerant
Golden Columbine (Aquilegia chrysantha)	Late spring to early summer	Moist, well-drained soils	Fragrant flowers

Tips for a Thriving Drought-Resistant Garden

Colorado’s high elevation exposes plants to 30% more sunlight than at sea level, while the Front Range receives just 15 inches of annual precipitation. To make the most of your garden:

Choose perennials with staggered bloom times to keep your garden colorful throughout the year.
Add organic matter to your soil for better water retention.
Match plants to their specific sunlight and soil needs for optimal growth.

More Than Just Water Savings

Native plants do more than save water – they support the local ecosystem. They provide food and shelter for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife. Plus, they’re naturally resistant to local pests and diseases, which means fewer chemical treatments. Did you know suburban lawns use 10 times more pesticides per acre than farmland? Replacing traditional lawns with native plants can significantly reduce this impact.

If you’re unsure where to start, check out Resource Central’s Garden In A Box kits. These pre-planned garden collections feature drought-tolerant plants that are perfect for Colorado’s climate. They take the guesswork out of plant selection, making it easy to create a stunning, water-wise garden.

Switching to native and drought-resistant plants is one of the most effective ways to cut water use while designing a beautiful, low-maintenance landscape that works in harmony with Colorado’s environment. Up next, learn how to optimize your garden layout for even greater water efficiency.

4. Use Xeriscaping Methods

Building on the idea of choosing efficient plants, xeriscaping takes it a step further. It’s about designing your entire yard to work with Colorado’s unique climate rather than against it.

Why Xeriscaping Works So Well

Xeriscaping isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s a game-changer for water conservation. Studies show it can cut water use by 50% to 75% compared to traditional landscaping. Considering that nearly half of household water is used on turfgrass, this approach can significantly reduce waste. In fact, a well-thought-out xeriscape can save anywhere from 5,000 to 20,000 gallons of water annually.

John Murgel, a horticulture expert with CSU Extension, sums it up perfectly:

"Xeriscaping is about being smart with your resources, choosing plants that are suited to your environment, watering wisely, and using mulch effectively to conserve moisture."

The Seven Principles of Xeriscaping

To create a successful xeriscape, follow these seven guiding principles:

Plan your design thoughtfully.
Improve your soil for better plant health.
Use water-efficient irrigation systems.
Choose drought-tolerant plants.
Apply mulch to conserve moisture.
Replace traditional turf with alternatives.
Maintain your landscape with care.

These steps aren’t just practical – they ensure your yard stays both functional and beautiful.

Choosing the Right Materials for Water Conservation

The materials you use in your xeriscape can make a big difference in conserving water. Organic mulches, like bark, break down over time and enrich the soil, while inorganic options, such as gravel, help retain moisture for the long term.

For example, in March 2025, Southwest Boulder & Stone recommended Montana Bark Nuggets Mulch. These 1-2.5″ fir bark nuggets not only add a rich brown color to your yard but also decompose slowly, making them great for large areas. They suppress weeds, save time, and cut costs.

When applying mulch, aim for a 3-4 inch layer around your plants. Just be sure to keep it away from plant stems to avoid moisture-related issues. This simple measure reduces evaporation and keeps soil temperatures stable.

The Financial Upside

Xeriscaping isn’t just about saving water – it’s also easier on your wallet. Here’s how the costs stack up:

Landscape Type	Initial Installation	Annual Maintenance
Drought-tolerant landscapes	$1,500 – $4,600	$150 – $450
Traditional grass	$2,100 – $7,000	$900 – $2,700

Clearly, xeriscaping offers a more budget-friendly option in the long run.

Beauty Without Waste

Modern xeriscaping proves that water-efficient landscapes can also be visually stunning. Incorporate hardscaping elements like patios, pathways, and gravel beds to replace thirsty turf areas. Not only do these features add structure and style, but they also help reduce water use.

For even greater efficiency, group plants with similar water needs together and use drip irrigation systems to deliver water directly to the roots. This targeted approach ensures water is used where it’s needed most.

By working with Colorado’s climate instead of fighting it, you can create a yard that’s both practical and beautiful. With proper irrigation techniques, you could see water savings of 30% to 80%, and xeriscaping overall can cut gardening water use by 50% to 70%. Plus, these thoughtful design choices can even increase your property’s value.

Up next: discover how smarter irrigation practices can take your water efficiency to the next level.

5. Improve Irrigation and Watering Practices

Fine-tuning your watering routine can significantly boost efficiency while cutting down on waste. Let’s dive into how smarter timing and methods can make a big difference for your plants and water usage.

Timing Is Everything

When you water your plants can be just as important as how much water you use. Watering during the middle of the day can result in up to 30% water loss due to evaporation. That’s like watching nearly a third of your efforts (and water) evaporate into thin air instead of nourishing your plants.

Horticulture expert Linda Chalker-Scott highlights this perfectly:

"Optimal watering time is in the early morning; watering at midday wastes up to 30% of the water through evaporation, and evening watering regimes can encourage establishment of some fungal pathogens."

The best time to water is early morning, ideally before 8 a.m., to allow plants to absorb water efficiently while reducing the risk of fungal issues. If mornings aren’t an option, late evening (after 8 p.m.) is your next best bet.

Smart Irrigation Systems Save Water and Energy

Traditional sprinklers are surprisingly inefficient, with only 50–70% of the water actually reaching your plants. On the other hand, drip irrigation systems operate at 90–95% efficiency. These systems deliver water directly to the root zones through emitters and tubing, ensuring every drop counts. In fact, drip irrigation can cut water usage by up to 80% compared to traditional methods.

Drip systems also work at lower pressures (10–20 psi) compared to overhead sprinklers (50–80 psi), which saves energy too.

Another great option is soaker hoses, which release water slowly at about 0.5–1 gallon per foot per hour. They’re affordable, easy to set up, and can reduce water use by 30–50% compared to sprinklers.

As Rain Bird explains:

"Drip irrigation maximizes water usage by delivering water directly to the root zone, reducing runoff and the potential for weed growth and disease."

By using these systems, you can water smarter, not harder.

Avoid the Overwatering Trap

Many people overwater their lawns, applying shallow water too frequently. But lawns only need about 1 inch of water per week. Overwatering doesn’t just waste water – it can also weaken your lawn by encouraging shallow roots.

Instead, water deeply but less often to promote stronger, drought-resistant roots. Try the "cycle and soak" method: break your total watering time into three shorter cycles with breaks in between. This allows water to seep deeper into the soil without causing runoff.

Before you water, check soil moisture with the "finger test" – stick your finger into the soil to see if it’s damp. For a more thorough check, use a trowel or shovel to ensure moisture reaches 5–6 inches below the surface.

Adjust for the Seasons

Colorado’s changing seasons mean your watering habits should adapt too. Here’s a month-by-month guide for lawn watering:

Month	Watering Frequency	Amount of Water
May	1 time/week	1 inch
June	1–2 times/week	1–1.5 inches
July	1–2 times/week	1–1.5 inches
August	2 times/week	1–1.5 inches
September	1 time/week	1–1.5 inches
Mid-October to Mid-April	1–2 times/month	Around 1 inch (only if temperatures stay above freezing)

These are general guidelines, but always check the soil moisture before watering. As CSU Extension Staff advises:

"The most efficient way to water your lawn is to wait until it is dry, not necessarily on a set number of days. If the soil is damp, there’s no need to water – even if the surface soil looks dry."

Technology to the Rescue

Smart irrigation controllers and rain sensors can take the guesswork out of watering. These tools automatically adjust your watering schedule based on weather patterns, helping to reduce water use by an average of 40%.

For isolated dry spots, hand-watering is a better option than running your entire irrigation system. This targeted approach keeps water use in check and extends the time between full watering cycles.

6. Develop Water-Saving Daily Habits

While efficient fixtures and smart landscaping are great steps toward conserving water, your daily habits play a crucial role too. Making small adjustments in how you use water every day can lead to big savings over time. As Linda Heaton, an Extension specialist with the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, puts it:

"We can help conserve this important resource by developing some common-sense, water-saving habits. Making small changes in our lifestyles can add up to big savings in water use."

And the savings are real – by combining water-saving habits with efficient fixtures, the average household could save about $170 annually.

Bathroom Habits That Make a Difference

The bathroom is one of the easiest places to cut back on water use. For instance, turning off the tap while brushing your teeth can save around 8 gallons of water daily. Over a year, a family of four could save as much as 11,000 gallons and reduce their water usage by 13%.

Here’s something to think about: leaving the water running while brushing wastes up to 4 gallons each time. Multiply that by twice-a-day brushing, and you’re looking at over 200 gallons of wasted water every month. The fix is simple – turn the tap on only to rinse, and consider using a reusable cup instead of your hands.

Another easy change? Shorten your shower by just one or two minutes. This small tweak can save up to 150 gallons of water per month. Each two-minute reduction saves 5–9 gallons per shower.

Kitchen Water-Saving Strategies

The kitchen is another area where small changes make a big impact. For starters, keep a pitcher of drinking water in the fridge instead of running the tap to get it cold. It’s a simple habit that avoids unnecessary water waste.

When washing dishes by hand, don’t let the water run. Instead, fill one sink with soapy water for washing and another with clean water for rinsing. If you use a dishwasher, skip the pre-rinse and scrape food off plates instead. Modern dishwashers are designed to handle food residue, so there’s no need to pre-rinse. And remember, only run the dishwasher when it’s full. Using an ENERGY STAR certified dishwasher can save around 3,870 gallons of water over its lifetime compared to washing dishes by hand.

Once you’ve tackled the kitchen, it’s time to focus on the laundry room.

Laundry Room Efficiency

Your laundry habits can also help conserve water. Always wash full loads of laundry, or if that’s not possible, adjust the water level setting on your machine to match the load size. ENERGY STAR certified washing machines use just 13 gallons per load, while older models can use up to 23 gallons. Another bonus? Using cold water instead of warm or hot saves energy too.

Don’t Ignore the Small Leaks

Even minor leaks can add up to thousands of gallons of wasted water each year. Make it a habit to check for drips or leaks regularly and fix them right away.

Track Your Progress

Finally, keep an eye on your water bill. Monitoring your water usage can help you see the impact of your new habits. It’s also a great way to catch unexpected spikes that might signal a hidden leak or other issues. Tracking your progress keeps you motivated and ensures your efforts are paying off.

7. Use Community Resources and Rebates

Colorado offers a variety of rebate programs that help lower the cost of water-saving upgrades. These initiatives make it easier for residents to adopt conservation practices without breaking the bank.

Local Rebate Programs

Many towns and districts provide financial incentives for water-efficient improvements:

Town of Erie: Receive up to $2,000 annually for turf replacement projects. This includes $2 per square foot for low-water garden plantings or $1 per square foot for low-water grasses when replacing at least 200 square feet of irrigated turf.
Brighton: Offers $100 rebates for WaterSense-labeled Ultra High-Efficiency Toilets that use 1.1 gallons per flush or less, with a limit of two rebates per customer.
Lafayette: Provides $3 per rotary sprinkler nozzle (minimum 10, maximum 50), covering brands like Hunter MP®, Rain Bird®, and Toro® Precision™.
Little Thompson Water District: Offers up to $500 for soil amendments, $250 for drought-resistant plants, $150 for drought-tolerant trees, and up to $75 for WaterSense-labeled irrigation controllers.

Rebates for Irrigation Upgrades

Irrigation upgrades can significantly cut outdoor water use, and several programs are available:

East Cherry Creek Valley Water & Sanitation District: Provides 50% back (up to $100) on smart irrigation controllers and rebates for sprinkler components, including $25 for wired rain sensors, $50 for wireless rain sensors, and $5 per sprinkler body (up to 25 units).
Erie: Residents can get up to $50 per rain barrel (limit of two) and 50% back on drip lines, with a maximum rebate of $75.

How to Find and Apply

Start by contacting your local water provider. For example, Brighton emphasizes its commitment to helping residents conserve water:

"The City of Brighton’s Water Conservation Program strives to work with residents and businesses to conserve water both indoors and outdoors. Through these programs, we offer a variety of resources to help our citizens efficiently use water and save money for a more sustainable Brighton."

To discover funding opportunities, visit the Colorado Water Funding Opportunity Navigator – a database created by the Colorado Water Conservation Board – or check out Engage CWCB for turf replacement funding details.

Important Program Details

Most rebate programs require you to purchase and install qualifying products within the calendar year. For instance, Erie’s 2025 programs mandate installations between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025. Typically, applications are submitted online after the installation is complete.

Funding is often limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. To maximize eligibility, look for WaterSense-labeled products, as these are commonly required for rebates.

Some municipalities partner with organizations like Resource Central to offer additional services, including discounted Garden In A Box kits, sprinkler evaluations, and lawn replacement services. These efforts are paying off – Fort Collins has reduced average water use by 22% since 2001 due to its conservation programs.

Water-Saving Options Comparison

Finding the best water-saving solutions for your Colorado home means balancing water conservation, upfront costs, and installation effort. The following comparisons highlight how smart choices can significantly cut water bills while preserving precious resources.

Toilet Upgrades: Standard vs. Low-Flow vs. Dual-Flush

Did you know toilets account for nearly 30% of indoor water use in the average home?. Older models, especially those installed before 1994, are major water guzzlers, using anywhere from 3.5 to 7 gallons per flush. In contrast, low-flow toilets use just 1.28 to 1.6 gallons, and dual-flush toilets take efficiency further with options for 0.8 gallons for liquid waste and 1.6 gallons for solids.

Swapping out an older toilet for a WaterSense-labeled model can reduce water usage by 20% to 60%. That translates to saving nearly 13,000 gallons of water per year for a family, or about $140 annually. Installation costs typically range from $150 to $450.

Here’s a quick comparison of popular toilet types:

Toilet Type	Water Per Flush	Cost Range
Standard (pre-1994)	3.5–7 gallons	N/A
Low-Flow	1.28–1.6 gallons	$100–$500
Dual-Flush	0.8 gallons (liquid) / 1.6 gallons (solid)	$100–$1,000
Power-Assisted	1.1–1.2 gallons	$350–$1,500

Landscaping: Traditional Lawns vs. Xeriscaping

In the western U.S., more than half of potable water is used outdoors, much of it for turf grass. For Colorado homes, landscaping alone can account for 40% to 50% of total water use. Xeriscaping – using drought-tolerant and native plants – offers a smarter alternative, cutting water use by 60% or more compared to traditional lawns.

One Colorado homeowner reduced their monthly water bill from $285 to $114 after switching to xeriscaping. Plus, weekly maintenance time dropped from 5 hours to just 1 hour, saving about $160 a month in lawn service fees. While xeriscaping installation costs between $5 and $20 per square foot – averaging $15,120 to $18,400 for a standard yard – traditional landscaping costs range from $3,300 to $13,200 nationwide. Beyond water savings, xeriscaping can boost property value by up to 15%, attract pollinators, and improve soil health.

Appliance Upgrades: Conventional vs. High-Efficiency

Switching to water-efficient appliances is one of the easiest ways to save water. Conventional top-loading washing machines use 35–50 gallons per load, while ENERGY STAR-certified front loaders use just 13–20 gallons. This upgrade can save families around $350 annually.

Using WaterSense products can improve household water efficiency by about 20%. These upgrades are a straightforward way to make a big impact.

Easiest Implementation: Simple Fixes vs. Large Investments

Fixing leaks is one of the simplest and quickest ways to conserve water. In the U.S., leaks waste about 1 trillion gallons of water annually [75]. Even minor leaks can add up to hundreds of gallons wasted each year.

Jeff Tejral, a former water efficiency manager at Denver Water, puts it simply:

"The best way to save money on your water bill is to become more efficient at using water." [75]

Low-cost upgrades like installing low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators require minimal effort and provide consistent savings. For example, replacing faucet aerators alone can save enough electricity to power a hairdryer every day for a year.

Whether you’re starting small or planning bigger investments, align your water-saving approach with your budget and comfort level. Begin with easy fixes, and as rebates and savings grow, consider tackling larger projects.

Conclusion

Saving water in Colorado isn’t just about protecting the environment – it’s also a smart financial move that benefits both your household and the wider community. With the state facing frequent droughts, every drop conserved makes a difference for future generations, whether it’s for drinking, farming, or industry.

Did you know the average Colorado resident uses over 170 gallons of water per day? Even more surprising, about 55% of that is for outdoor purposes. By adopting the strategies mentioned earlier, you can significantly reduce this usage while lowering your utility costs.

"Water conservation is not just an environmental issue; it is also an economic one. By using water-saving practices, you can lower your utility bills. This can also raise your property value and help the environment."

GroundWorx®

The financial benefits are clear. Families typically spend $1,100 a year on water, but simple upgrades using WaterSense and ENERGY STAR products can trim $350 off that total annually. Multiply those savings across several conservation efforts, and the impact grows quickly.

Local resources can help you get started. For instance, the Town of Monument offers rebates: $50 for WaterSense toilets, $100 for irrigation systems, and $50 for rain barrels, covering purchases made between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025. Many other municipalities across Colorado have similar programs, so check with your local water provider for current incentives.

When considering a new home, energy- and water-efficient designs can further reduce utility bills while promoting long-term sustainability. Whether you’re building or upgrading, focusing on water-efficient features is a natural next step after smaller conservation efforts. Tralon Homes, for example, prioritizes building homes that align with Colorado’s unique water needs.

Even small changes can lead to big results. Start with simple fixes like repairing leaks and installing low-flow fixtures, then move on to larger projects such as xeriscaping or upgrading appliances. As Axium Home Inspection puts it:

"In Colorado, where water is as valuable as the scenic landscapes, taking steps to conserve this vital resource is essential."

Axium Home Inspection

Every drop saved today helps secure Colorado’s water future while preserving its stunning natural landscapes. Whether it’s supporting agriculture, sustaining urban growth, or protecting mountain ecosystems, your efforts play a part in something bigger. Plus, you’ll enjoy the added bonus of keeping more money in your pocket.

FAQs

How can I find hidden water leaks in my home?

Hidden water leaks can waste a surprising amount of water, but spotting them doesn’t have to be complicated. A good starting point is your water meter – take a look when no water is being used. If the meter is still moving, there’s a chance you have a leak. Another clue? Listen closely for the sound of running water when all faucets and appliances are turned off. Also, keep an eye out for damp spots or discoloration on your walls, ceilings, or floors, as these can be telltale signs.

Here’s a quick trick for checking your toilet: add a few drops of food coloring to the tank. If the color shows up in the bowl without flushing, you’re likely dealing with a leak.

For a more accurate diagnosis, you might want to bring in a professional. They can use advanced tools like thermal imaging or acoustic sensors to pinpoint hidden leaks. Addressing leaks early not only helps conserve water but also lowers your utility bills and can save you from expensive home repairs down the line.

What is xeriscaping, and how can I start using it to save water in my Colorado yard?

What Is Xeriscaping?

Xeriscaping is a landscaping approach focused on conserving water by incorporating drought-tolerant plants, efficient irrigation techniques, and thoughtful soil care. In a state like Colorado, where the climate leans toward semi-arid, this method can significantly cut down water use, reduce upkeep costs, and even benefit the environment.

If you’re ready to give xeriscaping a try, start by evaluating how much sunlight and water different parts of your yard get. After that, pick plants that are native to Colorado or naturally resistant to drought – they’re more likely to thrive without needing constant watering. You can also swap out traditional grass for options like gravel, mulch, or low-water ground covers. To keep things efficient, consider installing drip irrigation systems and adding mulch to help the soil hold onto moisture. With a bit of preparation, xeriscaping can transform your yard into a stunning, water-smart space that works all year long.

Are there rebates in Colorado to help save money when upgrading to water-efficient appliances and fixtures?

Yes, plenty of places in Colorado have rebate programs to make upgrading to water-efficient appliances and fixtures more affordable. Towns like Erie, Grand Junction, and Superior, for instance, offer rebates on items such as water-saving toilets, dishwashers, and washing machines. These programs aim to promote water conservation, but they often come with conditions – like requiring purchases to be made within the current calendar year. Check with your local municipality for details on eligibility and deadlines.