GILROY
– As the drought season arrives and water rates continue to
rise, South County residents can take advantage of a free service
that helps save money, water, energy and the environment.
GILROY – As the drought season arrives and water rates continue to rise, South County residents can take advantage of a free service that helps save money, water, energy and the environment.
The City of Gilroy and the Santa Clara Valley Water District are jointly offering free “Water-Wise House Calls” this summer to help customers save water and manage their use more efficiently.
The two agencies estimate a typical household can reduce water consumption by roughly 30 gallons per day or 11,000 gallons a year, which translates into savings in both water and energy costs for the consumer.
“When you save water, you save energy because it takes energy to treat the water, deliver it to your home and heat it,” said Kevin Galvin, a program manager with the water district.
During the appointments, officials will assist customers in determining how much water they use both inside and outside the home. Technicians will check for leaks and install free low-flow shower heads, faucet aerators and toilet flapper valves if needed and requested.
Technicians will also evaluate irrigation systems with a catch-can test and inspection and offer customized lawn watering schedules and conservation tips.
Outdoor water use often accounts for roughly 52 percent of the total water usage in a typical home, officials estimate. Toilets, showers, laundry and leaks each account for roughly 10 percent, while faucets ring in at 8 percent. Baths account for 1 percent and dishwashers a half-percent.
A typical appointment takes roughly 1- and-one-half hours and is available on Saturdays as well as weekdays and evenings during daylight hours. Residents of single-family homes, condominiums, townhouses, apartments and mobile homes are all invited to participate.
For more information, have your water company account number available and call (800) 548-1882.
