Who uses water-saving fixtures in the home?
William David Gibbons, Income Statistics Division Canadians use a large amount of water during their day to day activities. Environment Canada estimates that in 2004, the average individual consumed 329 litres of water per day.1 Toilets (31%) and showers (19%) account for approximately half of the total indoor water consumed.2 Retrofitting or replacing these fixtures with water-saving models can provide a starting point for households looking to cut back on water use. Households may conserve water for a number of reasons. Residents might be motivated by the financial savings from reduced water usage. In the case of shower heads, energy costs can be lowered since less natural gas, electricity or other fuel is used to heat the water. Retrofitting programs and rebates may also play a role.3 Other households look to reduce their impact on the natural environment. Finally, the use of water-saving fixtures may not even be voluntary, as some regions require their use—as mandated in a Building
