Summer watering adds up

As temperatures begin to rise, be aware of how much water you use outdoors—increasing your outdoor watering this summer may dramatically impact your water bill.

	Save water this summer by converting to water-smart landscaping.

The Water District water rate structure is designed to encourage conservation. The rates are tiered so that the more water your use, the more you pay. See the water rates and thresholds page for more details.

Calculate your water bill

To view a break down of your water bill by threshold, enter your typical usage in our water bill calculator. A graph will show you how much water you are using in each water rate tier.

Ways to save

During the summer, residents use up to 90 percent of their drinking water outdoors on landscapes. Save water this summer with the following outdoor tips:

• Water landscapes only as needed. Limit landscape watering to four days per week during the summer, increasing the schedule only as your landscape needs more water. Water during the early morning hours to prevent evaporation.
   
• Convert to water-smart landscaping. Water-smart landscaping uses about 55 gallons less per square foot than traditional grass landscapes. You also can receive a rebate of $1.50 per square foot when you convert with the Water Smart Landscapes Rebate.
   
• Water brown spots by hand. Instead of watering your entire landscape more to control brown spots, use a garden hose to water only where needed.
   
• Don't water on windy or rainy days.
   
• Check your irrigation system weekly. Look for broken or misaligned sprinkler heads or drip emitters, which can be prime water-wasters.

Looking for more ways to save? See our sprinkler watering tips.