Toilets
The EPA reports that toilets are the main source of indoor water use in the average home, accounting for nearly 30 percent. Older toilets can use as much as 6 gallons per flush. Toilets with the WaterSense label use 1.28 gallons per flush or less. Dual-flush toilets let you choose a smaller flush for liquid waste and a larger one for solid waste.
Showers
Shorter showers save the most, and an efficient showerhead helps too. WaterSense labeled showerheads use no more than 2.0 gallons per minute, and the EPA estimates the average family could save 2,700 gallons per year by installing them. Because less hot water is used, there is also less energy spent heating it.
Faucets and leaks
A dripping faucet or a running toilet wastes water around the clock, so fixing leaks promptly is one of the easiest savings. To check for a hidden leak, look at your water meter when nothing in the house is using water. If the meter is still moving, you may have a leak.
A few habits help as well: turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or shaving, and don’t rinse dishes under a running tap.
Appliances
When you replace a dishwasher or washing machine, compare the water use shown on the efficiency label. Newer efficient models use noticeably less water than older ones.
Sources
We install high efficiency toilets, faucets and showerheads. See Water conservation and efficiency.