Through informed shopping and water usage, you can drastically reduce the amount of water that you use on a daily basis. For example, the Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense program has helped consumers save an estimated $343 million in water and sewage expenses since 2006, using simple procedures and devices available to anyone.c 

Water-saving technologies like low-flush toilets perform the same functions as standard models, but use less water depending on the function. Other devices like rain sensors can be used to prevent unnecessary water use in automatic devices like sprinklers.c

 Water use in your home can be reduced by almost 50 percent by installing low-flow aerators on your faucets and showerheads. A low-flow showerhead, for example, uses about 2.5 gallons of water per minute, while standard showerheads use about 6.c Low-flow faucets cost between $1.50 and $14; showerheads cost $10-$40.c 

Like low-flow faucets, dual-flush toilets use a fraction of the water that standard models do. An ordinary flush uses about 1.6 gallons while a reduced-flow flush uses only 0.9 gallons. Low-flow flushing can cut toilet water use by as much as 60 percent.c

Rain sensors detects area rainfall and automatically shut down your sprinkler system. There are a number of different rain sensors on the market; many are programmed to keep your sprinklers off until moisture has been absorbed into the soil.c

One of the simplest ways to reduce your bathroom water usage is by taking shorter showers. Shower timers can switch off the flow of water automatically when you've been showering a certain amount of time, while others use a colored meter to indicate when you've exceeded your allotted time.c

A rain barrel can be attached to your home's gutter or drain system to capture rain water and store it for future use. Recycling rain water in this manner keeps it from picking up harmful toxins and other pollutants in storm drains before returning to natural sources.c