Low-Flow Fixture Water Savings Calculator
Example: Old fixture flow rate: 2.5 gpm · Low-flow fixture rate: 1.5 gpm · Minutes of use per person per day: 10 min · People in household: 3 people · Water + sewer rate: 10 $/1000 gal
| Annual savings | $110 |
| Gallons saved per year | 10,950 |
| Gallons saved per day | 30 |
Worked example
Swap 2.5-gpm showerheads for 1.5-gpm models used 10 minutes a day by each of 3 people. That saves 1 gallon per minute, or 10 gallons per person daily and 30 gallons a day for the household. Over a year that is about 10,950 gallons, worth roughly $110 at a combined $10 per 1,000 gallons for water and sewer — plus extra savings on the gas or electricity you no longer use to heat that water.
Frequently asked questions
Do low-flow fixtures feel weaker?
Modern WaterSense-labeled showerheads and aerators use pressure-compensating and aerating designs to keep a strong, satisfying spray while using less water. Most people cannot tell the difference in feel, which is why the water and energy savings come essentially for free.
Does this include hot-water energy savings?
This tool calculates the water and sewer savings directly. Because much of that water is heated, you also save on the gas or electricity used to heat it, so your true total savings are somewhat higher than the figure shown. Fixtures on hot-water lines give the biggest all-in benefit.
What flow rate should I aim for?
WaterSense showerheads are 2.0 gpm or less, versus 2.5 gpm for a standard head, and efficient faucet aerators run around 1.0 to 1.5 gpm. Enter the rating stamped on your current and replacement fixtures to see your specific savings.
Are low-flow fixtures worth the cost?
Yes. Aerators cost a few dollars and showerheads a bit more, while saving thousands of gallons a year, so they typically pay for themselves within weeks to a couple of months. Some water utilities even give them away free to customers.