Water Conservation and Efficiency

As the Town’s population grows, so does the demand on our water system. BWG maintains a Water Conservation and Efficiency Plan (WCEP) that is intended to help the Town utilize and expand upon existing conservation efforts, as well as meeting the requirements set out in the Lake Simcoe Protection Plan.

Our records indicate there has been a steady decrease of water usage in the past few years, which gives the Town a positive outlook and encourages us to maintain our efforts.

Here are some way​s you can help!​

Fix your Leaks

Leaks in your toilet, hot water heater and other appliances can be costly.

How to Check For and Prevent Leaks

 

Read your water meter

Even if you think you have no leaks in your home, you can check periodically using your water meter. Start by recording the reading on your meter and then do not use any toilets, faucets or appliances that require water for approximately 30 minutes. After that time take a look at the reading again. If the dial has moved, there is a leak.​


Check and repair leaky faucets

​A dripping faucet or shower head usually makes itself known with an annoying dripping sound, but if you are unsure, leave a bucket or bowl under it for a period of time to see if any water collects. Replacing the rubber "O" ring or washer inside the valve can usually repair dripping faucets in your sinks and bathtub faucets.


Check and repair leaky toilets

To check toilets for leaks, place a few drops of food colouring in the toilet tank. Check again after 15 minutes - if any dye shows up in the toilet bowl, the toilet has a leak. Replace flappers every 4-5 years.

If you are unable to find the source of a leak or to repair it yourself, call a plumber - it will cost you less in the long run!

 

What will a leak cost you?

The majority of household leaks occur in faucets, showerheads and toilets. Washers and O-rings become worn, dried or cracked. Although this drip may seem harmless, it costs you money!

  • A continuous 1/16" leak for 30 days would waste 93 m³ of water or 422 bathtubs full for a total cost of $261!
  • A continuous 1/8" leak for 30 days would waste 372 m³ of water or 1,690 bathtubs full for a total cost of $1,089!
  • A continuous 1/4" leak for 30 days would waste 491 m³ of water or 6,777 bathtubs full for a total cost of $4,413!
Water your Lawn when Permitted

To ensure we have enough water to meet the needs of everyone in BWG, we need to work together to manage our water use, especially in the summer when demand for water is at its peak.

Our Lawn Watering By-law was enacted in 2014 to help balance the use of our municipal water supply. This helps ensure that in addition to normal daily activities like drinking, cooking and bathing, we also have enough water for emergency uses like firefighting.

Learn More

​Avoid Running the Tap
​Keep cold water in the fridge to avoid running the tap to make the water cold. Use a refillable water bottle and top it up throughout the day.
​Use your Dishwasher
​Use your dishwasher! It uses less water than washing by hand and saves you time.
Wash Fruits and Veggies in a Pot
Wash fruits and veggies in a pot rather than under running water, and cook food in as little water as possible. It also cuts down on cooking time!​​
Use a Broom or Leaf Blower
Use a broom or leaf blower instead of the hose to clean your driveway or walkway.​​​

Address: Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury, 100 Dissette St., Unit 7&8, Bradford, ON, L3Z 2A7

Phone: 905-775-5366, Send an Email

By GHD Digital