Influence of residential water use efficiency measures on household water demand: A four year longitudinal study

In response to increasing water demand, Miami-Dade County, FL, USA implemented water conservation incentives for the residential customers. These incentives include rebates and unit exchange programs for showerheads, toilets and clothes washers. In this study, impacts of the water conservation incentives on water demand were analyzed. Water savings and water use trend shifts of the customers were evaluated during the first four years after the implementation of water conservation practices. About 6–14% reduction in water demand has been observed during the first and second years. The water savings continued during the third and fourth years at a lower percentage. Water savings for water use efficiency measures were about 28 (10.9%), 34.7 (13.3%) and 39.7 (14.5%) gallons per household per day for the showerhead, toilet, and clothes washer programs; respectively. Adoption of more than one type of water efficiency appliance contributed to additional saving in residential water use.

► Long term observations of water savings and water demand trend shifts.
► Water demand significantly decreased in the first two years; continuously effects in the third or fourth year.
► High efficiency toilets and cloth washers have the highest potential in conserving water.
► Adoption of multi-types of appliances contributes to additional water savings.