Buckeye's Water Conservation Program: Promoting Efficiency Without Sacrifice
The City of Buckeye's Water Resources Department emphasizes that water conservation does not compromise comfort and convenience. Instead, it involves making minor adjustments in daily habits and adopting efficient devices and appliances for homes and businesses. By doing so, residents can reduce water waste and enjoy colorful, diverse, water-efficient landscaping. This approach aligns with the local climate and helps lower water bills.
Water Conservation Rebates
The Water Resources Director is authorized to issue rebates under Ordinance 14-09, with an annual budget allocation. Up to $10,000 in rebates are available each fiscal year on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are depleted. Details about the Smart Irrigation Controller and Turf Replacement rebates can be found on the City of Buckeye’s website.
Tips for Lowering Your Water Bill
- Fix Leaks: Over 10% of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more daily. Even a tiny leak, the size of a dime, can waste over 6,500 gallons monthly.
- Smart Irrigation: Install a weather-based smart water controller to save on irrigation.
- Meter Check: Read your water meter before and after two hours when no water is used. If the reading changes, you leak.
- Xeriscaping: Replace high-water-use plants and lawns with xeriscape.
- Efficient Use: Run washing machines and dishwashers only when full.
For more tips, visit buckeyeaz.gov/waterconservation, smarthomewaterguide.org, and wateruseitwisely.com.
Common Causes of High-Water Bills
- Irrigation/Landscape: Broken underground irrigation lines can lose over 300 gallons per hour without visible signs, and overwatering is also a frequent issue.
- Water Softeners/Reverse Osmosis: Improperly programmed water softeners can waste hundreds of gallons daily. Reverse osmosis systems can use up to five gallons for every gallon produced.
- Leaks: A leaking toilet can waste up to 6,000 gallons per month, often silently and intermittently.
- Swimming Pools: An average pool uses 16,000 gallons to fill and loses about 25,000 gallons annually due to evaporation and backwashing. In summer, evaporation can cause a loss of up to 2,500 gallons monthly.
For further information, contact the City of Buckeye Water Resources Department.
