By Chris Hancock and Heather Cooley, Pacific Institute 

Improving water efficiency doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, many strategies are simple, proven, and available right now. Here are seven ways to start: 

1. Replace old toilets

Swap out old, inefficient toilets with high-efficiency models. 

2. Upgrade showerheads  

Choose high-efficiency showerheads to reduce indoor water use.  

3. Upgrade clothes washers 

Replace older clothes washers with high-efficiency models to reduce water and energy use and costs. 

4. Choose landscapes that match local conditions 

Select plants and landscape designs suited to your local climate to reduce outdoor water use and support long-term water efficiency. 

5. Improve irrigation efficiency 

Adjust irrigation schedules to better match seasonal conditions and landscape needs. Reducing overirrigation, especially later in the irrigation season, can deliver some of the largest outdoor water savings. 

6. Repair household leaks  

Fix drips and leaks to reduce water costs and help prevent costly water damage, including damage that can affect indoor air quality and health. 

7. Look for the WaterSense® label 

WaterSense® labeled products combine performance and efficiency, making it easy to save. 

By taking these steps, households can help reduce water use, lower costs, and support the long-term resilience of water supplies. 

Learn more in the Pacific Institute report, “Untapped Potential: An Assessment of Municipal and Industrial Water Efficiency Potential in the United States.”