Utility Services

NOTICE: Offers to test water not from City

The City has received reports about a company that has been contacting residents about their water quality. The company typically requests an appointment to test the resident's in-home water system. They also recommend the resident purchase a water conditioning system.

This company is in no way affiliated with or representing the City of Savage. Residents are advised to treat the inquiry as they would any other sales call.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wise Water Use Print E-mail

Outdoor water restrictions


In an effort to ensure an adequate water supply for the community and to reduce waste, the City of Savage enforces outdoor watering restrictions throughout the year. Outdoor watering includes running sprinklers, using a garden hose, and using a watering can. Activities may include, but are not limited to, watering lawns, landscaping and gardens, and washing vehicles.

Restrictions:

All property owners

  • No outdoor watering from noon to 5 p.m.

Owners of properties with addresses ending in an odd number (1,3,5,7,9)

  • Water only on odd-numbered dates

Owners of properties with addresses ending in an even number (0,2,4,6,8)

  • Water only on even-numbered dates

 

Checking for leaks


The Savage Utility Services Division recommends the following simple procedure for checking your water system for leaks.

  1. Locate the water meter. It may be in the basement or utility room or wherever the water line enters your home.
  2. Read the meter twice. Read it first at night, after the day's water use has ended and again in the morning before any water is used. (Be aware that water softeners regenerate at night and water may be used in this process).
  3. Find the difference. Subtract the first from the second reading to tell how much (if any) water leaked out overnight.
  4. Do you suspect a leak?
  5. Find it by checking pipes and fixtures. Put food dye in the toilet tank if you suspect a leak in that fixture. (The dye will seep through into the bowl if its leaking).

Water use


Heating water is the second largest energy user in the home. Family hot water usage has increased due to more widespread use of modern appliances. The estimated water use in today's average home is:



Typical Water Usage:

Showering

20-40 gallons

Tub Bathing

36 gallons

Toilet Flushing

6 gallons

Teeth Brushing

2 gallons

Hand Washing

2 gallons

Shaving

3-5 gallons

Dishwashing 20 gallons
Automatic Dishwasher 15 gallons
Washing Machine 40-60 gallons
Outdoor Watering 5-10 gallons
Average Hot Water Used Per Day:

Two Adults

30 gallons

Two Adults, one child

45 gallons

Two Adults, two children

60 gallons

Two Adults, three children

75 gallons



Hot water leaks

A leaky hot water faucet should never be disregarded. Little drops of heated water cost money. These are examples of how much hot water and electricity can "go down the drain" through leaky faucets:



Drops per Minute

Gallons per Month

KWH per Month

60

192

48

90

310

78

120

429

107



Other tips

Other helpful tips for conserving water include:

  • Locate, mark and check your shut-off valves regularly.
Shut-off valves simplify repairs and save water in emergencies.
  • Thinking about remodeling?
If so, ask a plumber or plumbing supplier about water saving fixtures. Plan to insulate hot water pipes.

Links


Water conservation has become an important concern for all of society due to limited resources available and our continued reliance upon this natural resource.

Residents can do their part by utilizing simple techniques to help preserve our water supply for future generations. Please check out the links below for landscaping tips and water conservation.

Water Conservation
Landscaping tips

For more information on water conservation tips and techniques, contact the Utility Services Division at 952.224.3440. Additional tips are available at www.h2ouse.org/tour/index.cfm.

View CNN report on the impact of a leaking toilet