Reduce Winter Water Use for Year-Round Benefits

The City of Aledo reminds residents that winter is the perfect time to save water and lower utility bills. With the implementation of the Winter Averaging method, sewer charges for residential customers are based on average water usage during December, January, and February. These readings determine monthly sewer charges for the following year, making water conservation during this period especially important.

By reducing outdoor water use and conserving indoors during these months, residents can lower their sewer bills for the next 12 months. Since outdoor water usage does not enter the sewer system, limiting its use ensures that calculations are based mainly on indoor water use, which is collected and treated by the sewer system.

Turn Down the Flow, Turn Up the Savings!

Here are some practical tips to help Aledo residents conserve water this winter:

Indoor Water-Saving Tips

1. Fix Leaks Fast: Even small drips waste gallons of water daily. Check and repair leaks in faucets, toilets, and pipes promptly.

2. Use Water-Efficient Fixtures: Install low-flow showerheads, faucet aerators, and WaterSense-certified toilets.

3. Shorten Showers: Keep showers to 5–7 minutes to conserve water.

4. Run Full Loads: Use dishwashers and washing machines only when fully loaded to maximize efficiency.

5. Turn Off the Tap: Don’t let water run while brushing teeth, shaving, or washing dishes.

6. Test Toilets: Add a few drops of food coloring to the toilet tank; if the color appears in the bowl without flushing, there’s a leak. Replacing the flapper often resolves this issue.

Outdoor Water-Saving Tips

1. Adjust Irrigation: Scale back or turn off irrigation systems in winter, as grass goes dormant and plants need less water.

2. Insulate Pipes: Protect outdoor pipes from freezing and bursting to prevent water waste and expensive repairs.

General Water-Saving Tips

1. Track Water Usage: Sign up for My Water Advisor to monitor water use, detect leaks, and identify conservation opportunities. It’s easy and free!

2. Avoid Leaks While Away: When traveling, you can activate vacation alerts to be notified of potential leaks.

3. Educate Your Household: Involve family members in adopting water-saving habits to maximize conservation efforts.

For more information about My Water Advisor, visit www.aledotx.gov/wateradvisor.