As the sun shines brighter and temperatures rise, our community's water usage climbs with it. Whether watering lawns, filling pools, or simply staying cool, summer increases demand of our local water supply. That’s why water conservation is more important than ever.

Conserving water benefits the environment, prolongs the life of water infrastructure, and saves money. Hillsboro Water encourages all customers to conserve water when possible, and our new water use billing tier rewards your efforts with big savings for low water users. 

This new tier came out of the 2024 Community Advisory Panel on Water Rates, where community members recommended changes to incentivize water conservation and provide residents with more opportunities to save. 

Check out these tips to conserve water and save money this summer:

1. Sign Up for the Weekly Watering Number

Nearly half of the water used on lawns and gardens is wasted due to overwatering. Sign up to receive personalized watering recommendations all summer long.

2. Save Water Outdoors

Watering lawns and gardens accounts for the greatest increase in water use for most customers. Check your sprinklers to make sure they’re not watering the sidewalk, avoid watering during the middle of the day, and consider drip lines for plants and gardens. 

3. Schedule a Home Water Audit

Chat with our water conservation experts to learn simple and effective ways to reduce your water use at home. Residential home water audits help identify usage habits, pinpoint leaks, and can cut water usage by as much as 30 percent by implementing simple conservation measures. Hillsboro Water offers Home Water Audits to review customer's indoor and outdoor water use, troubleshoot issues, and recommend easy ways to save water and money by becoming more efficient.

4. Add a Shut-Off Nozzle to Your Garden Hose

These attachments can help you focus your watering efforts to roots and soil and can save you between 5-7 gallons for each minute you hose is on. 

5. Take Advantage of our Water Efficiency Rebates

You may be eligible for our rebate program for upgrading your appliances. The Water Department offers a series of rebates to help residential customers save water indoors and outdoors. 

• $75 for High-Efficiency Toilets
• $50 for Energy Star Washing Machines
• Up to $150 for Smart Water Meters
• Up to $200 for WaterSense Irrigation Controllers