Water Conservation

Saving Water Indoors -  About 50% of the water used in Westminster is used indoors.  Fixtures such as toilets and faucets have seen great improvements in water efficiency and performance within the last decade.  Appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers have seen similar improvements. 

Westminster, along with the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are partners in the WaterSense program to help consumers identify products that save at least 20% of the water used by standard products and are tested to perform as well, or in most cases, better.  When purchasing water using appliances, look for the WaterSense symbol on the product to ensure you will get the performance and savings you expect.  Click the link http://www.epa.gov/WaterSense to access the official WaterSense website.

Residents wishing to replace their existing toilets with high efficiency toilets may refer to the toilet efficiency ratings list below.

Toilet efficiency ratings

For more information visit our indoor water conservation page.

Landscape Irrigation Tips - Landscape does not need the same amount of irrigation each month. As we look back at how much irrigation was needed in the past, we can project the future needs. Sprinkler system programs should be modified several times during an irrigation season to reflect watering needs. The easiest way is to set one watering schedule for spring, one for summer, and a final schedule for fall.

Here are the numbers - If your lawn needs 1" of water per week from mid June, July and through August, mid summer (the amount recommended by the Sod Growers Association for an attractive lawn planted in good soil) then spring and fall watering amounts can be cut in half to only ½" of water per week. Using this method you can have one program for your system from the beginning of your irrigation season through mid June. Create a second program for the mid June through August time period and finally, revert to your water saving spring program for September through mid October when most irrigation needs drop to near zero.

Remember, your landscape has specific needs. Watering times may need to be adjusted for your conditions. Start on the low end and adjust up, if needed. Use a straight-sided container like a tuna can to measure the amount of water your system is applying.

For more information visit our outdoor watering page.

What is Reclaimed Water? - When water goes down the drains in your home or business, the City "recycles" and treats it for irrigation purposes. Use of this "recycled" water does not deplete the City's water supply. That's why parks, businesses, golf courses and other facilities that irrigate with reclaimed water are not bound by watering restrictions. Click here for more information on Westminster's reclaimed water system. Reclaimed water information

Tree and Plant Care - Visit http://www.watersaver.org/ to get information on proper tree and plant care throughout drought conditions. The information on this site is provided by Community Tree Alliance, which is comprised of tree professionals from city governments, parks districts, Colorado State University Cooperative Extensions, not-for-profit organizations, and Green Industries of Colorado.

Business and Industrial Tools - Visit Colorado Water Wise to conduct an audit of your business and browse the Water Smart Guide for Businesses to learn of business specific water conservation ideas. 

More Water Conservation Information