The City of Bend is launching a winter‑time water‑conservation push aimed at reducing the community’s sewer costs for the coming year. Officials say that the amount of water used during the colder months directly influences the volume of wastewater that must be treated, which in turn affects the annual sewer bill each household pays.

Why winter water use matters

When residents run water fixtures—showers, toilets, washing machines—during the winter, that water eventually enters the municipal sewer system. The more water that enters the system, the higher the treatment and infrastructure expenses for the city. By cutting usage now, Bend can lower the total volume of wastewater, which translates into lower operating costs and, ultimately, lower fees on residents’ utility statements.

Simple steps to save water

The city’s outreach includes three practical actions for homeowners:

• Check for leaks: A single dripping faucet can waste hundreds of gallons each month. Residents are encouraged to inspect indoor and outdoor fixtures and repair any leaks promptly.
• Upgrade older fixtures: Replacing dated toilets, showerheads, and faucet aerators with WaterSense‑rated models can cut water use by up to 30 percent without sacrificing performance.
• Request a free indoor water‑saving kit: The city will mail a kit that contains low‑flow faucet aerators, a high‑efficiency showerhead, and instructions for easy installation.

Financial incentives

To further motivate upgrades, Bend is offering rebates of up to $80 for homeowners who install a qualifying high‑efficiency toilet. The rebate program is open to all residential customers who meet the city’s eligibility criteria and submit proof of purchase and installation.

Where to find more information

Residents can explore additional water‑saving tips, view a list of eligible products, and apply for the rebate program by visiting WaterWiseTips.org. The website also provides step‑by‑step guides for checking leaks and installing the free kit.

City leadership’s perspective

Mayor Melanie Sheehan praised the initiative as a win‑win for families and the community’s fiscal health. “Conserving water during the winter months helps keep our sewer system affordable for every Bend household,” she said. “It’s a simple, responsible step that aligns with our commitment to good stewardship of public resources and supports families in managing their budgets.”

The water‑conservation effort reflects Bend’s broader strategy of encouraging responsible resource use while protecting taxpayers from rising utility costs. By pairing practical advice with financial incentives, the city hopes to see measurable reductions in water consumption before the spring melt, setting the stage for a more affordable sewer system throughout 2027.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.