Modesto’s watering schedule will change in November. Here are ways to save money on your bill
As the seasons change, so does the watering schedule in Modesto neighborhoods.
Starting Nov. 1, the city will return to its two-day watering schedule, said Diana Ruiz-Del Re, a city spokeswoman.
Homes with odd-numbered addresses can water outdoors on Wednesdays and Sundays, and homes with even-numbered addresses can water on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
“Something to keep in mind is that outdoor water use is prohibited between noon and 7 p.m. as well as the 48 hours following measurable rainfall,” Ruiz-Del Re said.
Generally, “hand watering of trees, shrubs, and car washing with use of a positive shutoff nozzle” is permitted anytime, according to the city website.
Modesto offers several rebate programs and tips to help reduce the amount of water residents use, which can also save money on your utility bill.
Modesto water rebate programs
Modesto water rates increased by 4.5% at the beginning of the month.
Customers “in good standing” can take advantage of several rebates to help conserve water, therefore saving money on their bill:
- Drip irrigation rebate program- A rebate of 50 cents per square foot is possible for residents who replace their sprinkler system with drip irrigation.
- High-efficiency clothes washer rebate- Residents can receive up to $200 to upgrade to a high-efficiency clothes washer. Those use about 40% less water than regular ones.
- High-efficiency toilet rebate program- Customers with homes built before 1992 may be eligible for up to $100 per high-efficiency toilet purchased to replace old ones.
- Turf replacement program- A rebate of $2 per square foot is possible for residents who replace a grass area with qualifying artificial turf products or drought-tolerant landscape products.
- Smart irrigation controller rebate program- Water customers maybe eligible for a $75 rebate to install a new smart irrigation controller that can save nearly 8,800 gallons of water annually.
Tips for conserving water
The city of Modesto offers several tips for conserving water year round and during cooler seasons.
Cooler weather and seasonal rain allows for considerably less to no supplemental watering, the city says. A bucket can be placed in the shower to catch water for plants and for cleaning.
More than 100 tips can be found on the Water Save It Wisely website, including:
- Use a dishwasher instead of hand washing
- Designate one glass or refill water bottle for yourself each day
- Compost food waste instead of using your garbage disposal when you can
- Defrost food in the refrigerator instead of with water
- Reuse leftover water from cooked or steamed foods as a soup starter
- If you accidentally drop ice cubes, put them in a plant pot
- Shorten your shower by a minute or two to save up to 150 gallons of water per month
This story was originally published October 17, 2023 at 5:00 AM.
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