Plumbing Habits That Help Lower Your Water Bill

In the Phoenix metro area, summer heat often leads to increased water usage, which can result in higher monthly bills. Many homeowners in Scottsdale, Mesa, and surrounding areas seek practical ways to reduce water waste without compromising comfort. While cutting down on usage might seem like the obvious solution, improving your plumbing habits is often a more effective and long-term strategy.

Plumbing efficiency doesn’t have to involve major renovations. By adjusting how you use water and keeping your plumbing system in good shape, you can manage your utility bills more effectively throughout the year.

Noticing higher water bills than usual? It might be time to schedule a plumbing inspection. Request a plumbing service today to catch small issues before they become costly problems.

Fix Leaks Promptly and Thoroughly

Undetected leaks are one of the most common reasons for rising water bills. Even minor leaks can waste thousands of gallons annually. A dripping faucet or a running toilet may not seem urgent, but they contribute to significant water loss and increased costs over time. Leaks often occur in areas that are easy to overlook:

• Beneath sinks or behind cabinets
• Toilet flappers and fill valves
• Shower fixtures or diverters
• Water supply lines to appliances
• Outdoor spigots or irrigation connections

While some leaks are visible, others may be hidden within walls or underground. If you hear water running when nothing is turned on, notice damp spots, or experience an unexplained spike in your bill, it’s best to call a licensed plumber for a leak detection service. A qualified technician from Donley A/C and Plumbing can help you identify the issue and perform necessary repairs. You can learn more about our full plumbing repair services here.

Addressing leaks early helps protect your plumbing system and can prevent more serious damage to your home.

Upgrade to Water-Efficient Fixtures

Replacing outdated fixtures with newer, water-saving models is a proactive way to reduce usage without changing your habits. Today’s plumbing products are designed to deliver performance while using less water.

Look for fixtures certified by the Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense program. These include:

• High-efficiency toilets that use 1.28 gallons per flush or less
• Low-flow showerheads with a flow rate of 2.0 gallons per minute or lower
• Faucet aerators that reduce water flow without affecting pressure

Switching to efficient fixtures can benefit households of all sizes, especially during summer when water demand increases. These upgrades are relatively simple and can be completed by a plumber or confident DIYer. If you’re unsure where to begin, the team at Donley A/C and Plumbing can help you choose fixtures that suit your home and provide professional installation. 

Improve Water Use Habits in High-Traffic Areas

Kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms account for the majority of indoor water use. Adopting a few simple daily habits can reduce waste and keep your water bill in check without making dramatic lifestyle changes. Here are several strategies to consider:

• Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth or shaving
• Only run the dishwasher and washing machine when they are full
• Scrape dishes instead of rinsing before placing them in the dishwasher
• Thaw frozen foods in the refrigerator, not under running water
• Collect cold water while waiting for it to heat up and use it for watering plants

These adjustments may seem minor, but they can help you conserve hundreds of gallons each month over time. Creating awareness among household members and consistency with these practices can make a measurable difference in utility usage.

Insulate Pipes to Improve Efficiency

Insulating exposed pipes is a straightforward way to improve your plumbing system’s efficiency. Pipes that run through unconditioned areas, such as garages, basements, or exterior walls, are especially prone to heat loss or gain. In Phoenix, rapid temperature changes can impact how quickly hot water reaches your tap. Insulated pipes help in a few important ways:

• Hot water arrives faster, reducing the need to run taps unnecessarily
• Less energy is used to maintain hot water temperatures
• Pipes are protected from condensation and potential cracking

While pipe insulation is often a do-it-yourself project, a professional can assess the best materials and techniques for your home setup. This type of improvement is a good example of how a small change can support larger goals like water conservation and energy efficiency.

Schedule Routine Plumbing Maintenance

Preventive maintenance is one of the most effective ways to keep your water usage under control. A licensed plumber can identify inefficiencies, detect early signs of wear or damage, and ensure your system is running as intended. During a maintenance visit, a plumbing technician may:

• Inspect all visible pipes and connections for signs of leaks or corrosion
• Test water pressure and make adjustments if necessary
• Check the condition of valves, supply lines, and fixtures
• Evaluate the performance of your water heater and recommend maintenance if needed

Regular maintenance helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and gives you the opportunity to make small improvements before larger issues arise. It also ensures your plumbing system is keeping up with your household’s needs as seasons change.

If it’s been over a year since your last plumbing inspection, consider scheduling a visit with Donley A/C and Plumbing. Our plumbing repair services are designed to help Phoenix-area homeowners stay ahead of costly surprises.

Take Control of Your Water Use with Smart Plumbing Practices

Water conservation is a year-round priority for Phoenix homeowners. While summer often highlights the importance of managing water use, the habits you build today can benefit your household throughout the year. From quick fixes to routine checkups, improving your plumbing habits is one of the most effective steps you can take to lower your water bill and maintain a reliable system.

If you're ready to make your home more water-efficient or want help identifying areas for improvement, contact our plumbing experts. Use our online contact form or call us at (602) 698-8912 to schedule an appointment today.