Peter Abraham

Peter A. Abraham, P.E. | Water Utility Director

Get To Know Your Water Numbers

Those who live in Oro Valley have a pretty good sense about the important role water plays in our lives every day. The community’s commitment to water conservation is evident. In the past year, 64-89% of our residential customers fell within our lowest level of consumption depending upon the season. Not surprisingly, our summer temperatures drive water use during this time and can increase consumption substantially. How can you find a balance between saving water and beating the heat? Being more water aware can make big impacts on conservation and your monthly bill regardless of season. Read more to find out how.

Being average can be a good thing and saves money on your water bill. The average water use for the most common sized meter (5/8”) is about 7,500 gallons per month.

Customers pay the lowest price per 1,000 gallons when they use up to 7,000 gallons. See our rates and fees at orovalleyaz.gov.

For every degree above our average daily temperature, water use increases by about 3 gallons per day per person which can add up to an additional 1,000 gallons or more per month.

Summertime breaks mean kids may be home more. Families may be more active and can lead to more showers and even extra laundry! Resist the temptation to take those extra showers. Reducing shower times by just 1 or 2 minutes can save water as well as washing full loads when doing laundry and loading the dishwasher.

Our customers commonly put 50% or more of their total water use outdoors. Plants are an important part of our yard and a connection to wildlife.

• Choose low water use or native plants that need less frequent watering and limit water thirsty plants such as grass.

• Irrigation leaks, overwatering and timer scheduling errors add up quickly on your bill. Monitor your daily water use online and receive automated leak alerts using WaterSmart at orovalley.watersmart.com

• Got a pool? Pools on average use about 2,000 gallons/ month due to evaporation and back flushing but can use more in the summer and less in the winter. Make sure your pool’s autofill is working correctly. If your pool demands water 24/7 or you have unusual water use, investigate for leaks in your pool and pool equipment.

Scan the QR code or visit smarthomewaterguide.org and click on Outdoor Visual Leak Inspection to learn about the bucket test.

• Are you tired of your pool? Removal is an option. For general information on the process and cost savings calculator, go to poolremovalhelp.org