Water Efficient Homes

For more information

Call 905-546-2489 orEmail [email protected]

With some simple changes to how we think and act, we can all reduce our water usage and our water bills.

Water is one of our most precious resources. Preventing water waste helps to conserve this vital resource while saving you money. In homes, the main sources of water waste are from leaks, indoor overuse, and outdoor over-watering of lawns and gardens. You may not realize you have a leak until you receive your water bill. Many leaks may go unnoticed, but they can be costly.

Conserving water will go along way to saving you money, and protecting the environment.

The kitchen is where 15% of all water is used at home. This water is generally used for drinking, cooking and cleaning.

Tips to reduce water consumption in the kitchen

The bathroom is the largest water consuming area in the home; 65% of water used is in the bathroom.

Tips to reduce water consumption in the bathroom

Savings from water conservation at home

Estimated savings from switching one regular toilet to a low flow toilet:

Washing machines Represent over 20% of all water used inside the home. High Efficiency (HE) washers use between 30% to 40% less water and as much as 70% less energy than standard (non-HE) top loading machines

Tips to reduce water use in the laundry room

High Efficiency (HE) Washers

Estimated savings from switching to an HE washing machine:

Below are some tips for discovering water leaks. If you find that you are experiencing a significant leak, please see the Leak Adjustment Program to determine eligibility for financial compensation.

The easiest way to know how much water you use is to calculate it from your water bill. Your water is measured in cubic metres (m3). One cubic metre (m3) = 1000 litres of water. Compare bills from same month each year for differences. You can also look for spikes—is your water use a lot higher this month than it was last month? There is also a consumption bar chart on your water bill that provides the last 12 months of water use. Large changes in usage can easily be seen here.

Learn more about your water bill by visiting alectrautilities.com/water-billing

You can calculate your water usage by looking at your water meter. Your water meter should be located near the front of your residence, either in the basement or crawl space where your water line comes into your home. This is also where you’ll find the home’s main water shut off valve. To discover water leaks in your home, follow these steps:

You may wish to contact a qualified tradesperson to help you find and repair any leaks. You can also download the Leak Detection Guide(PDF, 7.15 MB) for more water leak tips.

Toilets

High volume water leaks often come from toilets. They are hard to detect and are usually caused by worn or misaligned parts. Follow these steps to check your toilet for leaks.

Faucets / Taps

Under the sink

Showerheads

In the tub

Faucets / Taps

Under the sink

Appliances

Water heater

Water softeners

Water Meter

In-ground irrigation system

Swimming Pools and Spas

Fountains and water features

For a more detailed checklist, please download the Leak Detection Guide(PDF, 7.15 MB).

Avoid a high water bill from an unexpected leak by turning off your water before you go away:

Shut off the inside water supply if your house is going to be unoccupied for any length of time, even if it is only for a weekend, except where water is used for heating.

Close the inside building control shut-off valve and open faucets to relieve pressure in the lines. If there is no shut-off valve, close the water supply to toilets, sinks, tubs and washing machines that often have individual shut-off valves.

If your property will be vacant for 90 days or more, call 905-546-2489 within 24 hours of leaving to arrange for the City to turn your water off at the street. Please note that there is an applicable fee for this service.

To arrange for account payments while you are away, call Alectra Utilities Customer Service at 1-833-253-2872.

The City of Hamilton's Residential Leak Protection Program administered by ServLine, provides protection to residents from a high-water bill caused by a qualifying leak.

Please refer to City of Hamilton’s Leak Protection Program guidelines and qualifications(PDF, 41.28 KB) before completing the Water Leak Adjustment Form. This form must be completed no later than 60 calendar days from the billing date.

Any residential customer may request additional information concerning the City of Hamilton’s Leak Protection Program administered by ServLine by calling 1-888-977-7471