Calculate Your Water Use
Where Does Your Water Go?
Most people are surprised by how much water everyday activities use. Understanding your household's water use is the first step toward conserving water and reducing your monthly water bill.
The estimates below are based on typical household fixtures and appliances. Actual water use may vary depending on the age and efficiency of your plumbing fixtures and appliances.
Typical Household Water Use
| Activity | Typical Water Use |
|---|---|
| Toilet Flush (modern high-efficiency) | 1.28 gallons |
| Toilet Flush (older toilet) | 3–5 gallons |
| Shower (10 minutes) | 20–25 gallons |
| Bath | 35–50 gallons |
| Brushing Teeth (faucet running) | 4 gallons |
| Brushing Teeth (faucet off) | Less than 1 gallon |
| Shaving (faucet running) | 10–20 gallons |
| Dishwasher (full load) | 4–6 gallons |
| Clothes Washer (high efficiency) | 15–25 gallons |
| Clothes Washer (older model) | 35–45 gallons |
| Garden Hose | 8–12 gallons per minute |
| Lawn Sprinkler | 600–1,200 gallons per hour |
| Car Wash at Home | 40–100 gallons |
Common Water Wasters
Small leaks can waste significant amounts of water over time.
| Leak | Estimated Water Waste |
|---|---|
| Dripping Faucet | Up to 3,000 gallons per year |
| Running Toilet | More than 200 gallons per day |
| Small Irrigation Leak | Thousands of gallons per month |
| Hose Left Running | More than 600 gallons per hour |
Outdoor Water Use
During the summer, outdoor irrigation can account for more than half of a household's total water use.
You can reduce outdoor water use by:
- Watering only when needed.
- Watering early in the morning.
- Checking irrigation systems for leaks.
- Using mulch to retain soil moisture.
- Planting native or drought-tolerant species.
How Much Water Does Your Family Use?
A typical family of four may use approximately:
| Activity | Gallons Per Day |
|---|---|
| Toilets | 70 |
| Showers & Baths | 60 |
| Faucets | 35 |
| Laundry | 30 |
| Dishwasher | 15 |
| Cooking & Drinking | 10 |
| Outdoor Watering (seasonal) | Highly variable |
Estimated Daily Household Total: 220–300 gallons
Tips to Reduce Water Use
Even small changes can make a noticeable difference.
✔ Repair leaks promptly.
✔ Install WaterSense® fixtures.
✔ Run dishwashers and washing machines only when full.
✔ Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth.
✔ Water lawns only when necessary.
✔ Sweep driveways instead of using a hose.
✔ Use a rain barrel for watering gardens.
Did You Know?
- A family can save thousands of gallons of water each year by repairing household leaks.
- Outdoor watering is often the largest source of increased summer water demand.
- Installing WaterSense® fixtures can reduce indoor water use by 20 percent or more.
- Conserving water also saves the energy required to pump, treat, and deliver drinking water.
Every Gallon Matters
Every gallon of water saved helps protect Southington's groundwater resources, reduces operating costs, and ensures a reliable water supply for our community. By understanding where water is used, you can make informed choices that benefit both your household and the environment.
CLICK THE IMAGE BELOW TO SEE HOW MUCH YOU'RE USING!
The Water Calculator estimates household water use, and compares your home to both a typical household and an efficient household in your zip/postal code. The calculator also estimates your carbon footprint from hot water consumption, and helps identify specific strategies for improving overall household water efficiency. Ready to save water and lower your water bills? The Water Calculator gets you started right away.