As summer settles in across Portland and nearby communities like Gresham, Lake Oswego, and Troutdale, it’s common to see water bills rise. The warmer months bring more outdoor watering, longer showers, and a heavier reliance on appliances like washing machines and dishwashers. But higher temperatures don’t have to mean higher utility costs.

If you're looking to trim expenses or be more environmentally conscious, the good news is that small, intentional changes can make a meaningful difference in your water use. At Wolcott, we believe that homeowners and business owners alike can enjoy comfort and savings with just a few smart choices.

Don’t wait for your next bill to spike—schedule a plumbing inspection today! Or give us a call at (971) 253-7883. We’re here to help you save.

Let’s take a look at a few effective ways to reduce water waste and lower your bill, without sacrificing convenience.

Install Water-Saving Fixtures

One of the simplest and most effective ways to improve your home's water efficiency is to upgrade to water-saving plumbing fixtures. Many older homes still use outdated hardware that allows more water to flow than necessary, literally sending money down the drain.

Modern plumbing innovations are designed to maintain performance while significantly reducing water output. These upgrades are usually straightforward to install and deliver long-term value by helping to cut back on everyday water use.

Some popular water-efficient fixture upgrades include:

Low-flow showerheads: These models restrict the gallons per minute (GPM) without sacrificing water pressure, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable shower while using up to 40% less water.
Faucet aerators: These small attachments reduce water volume while maintaining pressure by mixing air into the stream, making them ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
Dual-flush or low-flow toilets: Toilets account for nearly 30% of indoor water use. Installing a dual-flush toilet lets you choose between a low-volume flush for liquid waste and a standard flush for solid waste, helping you save gallons per flush.

If you're unsure which fixture upgrades are right for your home, Wolcott can help assess your current setup and recommend water-efficient solutions that fit your goals and budget.

Bonus Tip: Local utilities in the Portland area sometimes offer rebates for installing water-efficient fixtures. It’s worth checking with your provider to see what incentives are available!

Check for Leaks You Can’t See

You might be surprised how much water can be lost from tiny, undetected leaks. A faucet that drips once per second can waste over 3,000 gallons a year, and silent toilet leaks or pipe issues inside walls can be even more damaging to your bill and your property.

Most leaks aren’t immediately obvious, but there are warning signs to look out for. Here’s what to check:

Toilet running constantly: If you hear your toilet running long after a flush—or at random times—it could be a faulty flapper valve or fill mechanism.
Dripping faucets or showerheads: Even slow drips add up fast and can often be fixed with a washer or cartridge replacement.
Hidden leaks in walls or under sinks: Musty odors, peeling paint, or unexplained dampness can be clues that something’s wrong behind the scenes.

The earlier you detect and fix leaks, the more you’ll save in water costs and potential property damage. Our licensed plumbers at Wolcott specialize in leak detection and plumbing repair services across the Portland metro area.

Optimize Outdoor Water Use

It’s no secret that lawn care and gardening can be thirsty tasks, especially during the dry summer months. In fact, outdoor irrigation can account for nearly 50% of total water usage during this time. That makes outdoor water efficiency one of the best opportunities for savings.

The key is to water smarter, not harder. With a few adjustments, you can keep your lawn and plants healthy while significantly cutting back on waste.

Try these strategies:

Water early or late: Watering during the cooler parts of the day—typically before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m.—minimizes evaporation and helps plants absorb more moisture.
Use drip irrigation: Instead of spraying large areas, drip systems deliver water directly to plant roots, reducing runoff and evaporation.
Mulch flower beds: Mulching around plants helps retain moisture in the soil, which means you can water less frequently.
Choose drought-resistant plants: Opting for native or climate-adapted plants conserves water and reduces the need for fertilizers and pesticides.

By aligning your outdoor watering habits with nature’s rhythms, you can keep your landscape lush without draining your budget.

Use Appliances Wisely

Household appliances like dishwashers and washing machines use a lot of water, especially in busy households. The good news is that making small adjustments to how and when you run them can lead to major savings.

Even without upgrading to new equipment, these simple habits can help:

Run full loads only: Whether you’re doing laundry or dishes, wait until you have a full load to maximize each cycle’s efficiency.
Choose efficient appliances: If you’re in the market for replacements, look for ENERGY STAR® models. They’re designed to use less water and energy without sacrificing performance.
Avoid pre-rinsing dishes: Most modern dishwashers are built to handle food residue, and rinsing beforehand can waste up to 6 gallons of water per load.

Practicing smart appliance use can reduce your water bill, and also extend the life of your appliances by using them more effectively.

Monitor Your Water Bill

Sometimes the clearest sign that something’s off is right in your mailbox—or your inbox. Your monthly water bill can offer valuable clues about your usage and alert you to potential issues like hidden leaks or seasonal spikes.

Here’s how to make the most of your bill:

Track your monthly usage: Keep a record and look for trends or sudden increases.
Perform a meter test: Turn off all water-using appliances and check your meter. You may have a hidden leak if it changes after a few hours.
Set up usage alerts: Some local utilities allow you to set thresholds or alerts to monitor unusual consumption patterns in real time.

By staying aware of your water consumption, you can catch small issues before they become big expenses.

Saving water doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or convenience. With just a few thoughtful changes—like upgrading your fixtures, checking for leaks, and adjusting your irrigation—you can enjoy lower water bills and a more efficient home this summer.

Leave Your Water Usage Concerns to the Experts

Whether you're ready to install low-flow fixtures, need help detecting a leak, or want expert advice on outdoor efficiency, the friendly pros at Wolcott are here to help. We proudly serve homeowners and business owners in Portland, Gresham, Lake Oswego, Troutdale, and surrounding areas with honest service and dependable solutions.

Ready to get started? Contact us online or give us a call at (971) 253-7883. Let’s make your home smarter and more water-efficient today!