In Halifax, water conservation isn’t just a seasonal concern. It’s a long-term habit that can save homeowners money, protect the environment, and reduce pressure on our city’s water systems. Whether you’re new to the city or a longtime resident, understanding how Halifax Water operates and what steps you can take to reduce your household’s water and wastewater usage is essential. Let’s explore some easy and impactful changes you can make today.
Why Should You Care About Water Consumption?
Every drop of water that flows from your tap or toilet is metered by Halifax Water. That means your water and wastewater bill depends directly on your consumption. The more you use, the more you pay, and that includes not just water, but also the cost of treating and pumping wastewater out of your home.
For those connected to Halifax’s municipal water system, this translates to both water usage and wastewater discharge fees. For homeowners using their own septic system, conserving water can extend the life of your system and help avoid costly repairs.
Reducing water consumption also supports Halifax’s commitment to sustainability, easing demand on our water treatment infrastructure and preserving natural resources for future generations.
Understanding Where Water Is Used the Most
According to Halifax Water, almost two-thirds of the water used in a household is consumed in the bathroom. Every flush, every shower, and every minute the tap is running adds up quickly.
Here’s a closer look at the common culprits:
- Toilets: Traditional toilets can use between 6 to 26 litres per flush
- Showers: The longer you shower, the more water you use, up to 10 litres per minute
- Sinks: Leaving the tap running while brushing your teeth, shaving or doing dishes can waste several litres per day
- Washing Machines: On average, top loader washers can use around 30 to 40 gallons (113 to 151 liters) of water per load, depending on the model and settings. While, front loading machines, use about 15 to 30 gallons (57 to 113 liters) of water per load.
With this in mind, the bathroom is a great place to start your water-saving efforts.
Easy Bathroom Water-Saving Hacks
- Let it mellow: Consider skipping a flush for liquid waste. This simple practice can reduce your water use significantly over time. Not all people prefer this practice, so to each their own.
- Take shorter showers: Even trimming your shower time by just a couple of minutes each day can lead to noticeable savings
- Turn off the tap: While brushing your teeth or washing your face, turn off the faucet to stop unnecessary water flow
- Install dual flush toilets: These toilets use less water for liquid waste and more for solid waste, providing an efficient balance
- Use low-flow shower heads and faucets: These fixtures reduce water flow without sacrificing performance
Water-Saving Tips for the Rest of Your Home
Beyond the bathroom, there are several ways you can cut down on water usage throughout your home:
- Fix leaks: A small leak can waste thousands of litres of water over a year. Regularly check under sinks, around toilets, and outdoor faucets
- Only run full loads: Whether it’s laundry or dishes, make sure your appliances are full before turning them on
- Reuse where possible: Leftover pasta water or melted ice can be used to water plants instead of pouring it down the drain
- Avoid using excessive dishes: Fewer dishes mean fewer washes and less water used
Outdoor Water Conservation in Halifax
Living in Halifax means experiencing a wide range of weather patterns, from rainy springs to dry summer spells. When it comes to outdoor water use, efficiency is key:
- Collect rainwater: Install rain barrels to capture natural rainfall for later use in your garden
- Water wisely: Water your garden in the early morning or evening to reduce evaporation. Avoid watering driveways or sidewalks
- Use mulch: It helps retain moisture in the soil and reduces how often you need to water
- Choose native plants: Plants adapted to Nova Scotia’s climate need less water to thrive
- Turn off the hose: Don’t let it run while washing your car. Use a bucket for soap and only turn the hose on to rinse
More Resources from Halifax Water
Halifax Water provides multiple tools and programs to help residents save water and money. These include:
- The H2O Fund: Financial assistance for low-income households struggling to pay water bills
- Lead pipe replacement rebates: Homeowners can receive up to 25% back when replacing lead pipes on their own
You can find more detailed information, maps, forms, and even seasonal disinfection notices on the Halifax Water website.
Halifax Water Rate Hike: What It Means for Homeowners
Halifax Water’s proposed double-year rate increase is making waves, both literally and financially. If approved, residential water bills could jump by over $300 annually by 2026/27. With a 16.2% hike projected for 2025/26 and another 17.6% the following year, the average homeowner will need to prepare for tighter utility budgets. These hikes are driven by a mix of rising interest rates, inflation, and the urgent need to upgrade aging infrastructure. Left unchecked, Halifax Water is forecasting multi-million dollar operating deficits, sparking concern across the board from homeowners to provincial political leaders.
For homeowners, the impact is twofold: immediate cost pressure and long-term affordability shifts. Higher monthly bills mean leaner budgets, especially for low to middle income households. Sellers may find that steep utility rates change how potential buyers view property affordability, while landlords could face thinner margins if utilities are bundled with rent. On the flip side, homes with energy and water efficient features may become more attractive, turning smart upgrades into a selling point rather than just a bonus.
Planning to Buy or Sell a Home in Halifax?
When you’re buying a home in Halifax, understanding how utilities like water are billed and managed is an important part of making a smart investment. A home with modern plumbing and water-efficient appliances will not only save you money long-term but also appeal to eco-conscious buyers.
As a realtor who’s been helping Halifax families find their perfect home and navigate these important details, I’ve seen firsthand how these small decisions can make a big difference.
If you’re planning to buy or sell a home, I’d love to help you make smart, informed decisions. From assessing utility efficiency to choosing the right neighborhood, I’m here to make your journey smoother and more successful.
Reach out anytime if you’d like a personalized consultation or have questions about your next move.
Business Information:
1959 Upper Water St, Halifax, NS B3J 3N2, Purdy’s Wharf Tower 1
Alisha Caillie-Fleet- Realty in Halifax, Nova Scotia
alishasellshfx@gmail.com
902-489-4911
