How to Reduce Water Usage in Denver Showers

Denver, known for its sweeping mountain views and vibrant urban culture, sits in a semi-arid region where water is a precious and increasingly scarce resource. As the city’s population grows and climate patterns shift, conserving water has become not just an environmental responsibility—but a practical necessity. One of the most significant sources of household water use in Denver is the shower. On average, a typical American shower uses about 17.2 gallons of water, and in homes with older fixtures, that number can easily exceed 25 gallons per use. In a city where annual precipitation averages just 15 inches and snowpack levels fluctuate dramatically, reducing water usage in showers isn’t just smart—it’s essential.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to reducing water usage in Denver showers. Whether you’re a long-time resident looking to lower your utility footprint or a new homeowner seeking sustainable living practices, this tutorial will equip you with actionable strategies, proven best practices, and real-world examples tailored to Denver’s unique water challenges. By the end, you’ll understand how small changes in your shower routine, combined with smart upgrades and local resources, can lead to substantial water savings—without sacrificing comfort or hygiene.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Measure Your Current Shower Water Usage

Before you can reduce water usage, you need to know how much you’re currently using. Many Denver residents assume their showers are efficient, but outdated fixtures or long durations can silently drain resources. To measure your shower’s water consumption:

• Place a 1-gallon bucket under your showerhead.
• Turn on the shower at your usual temperature and pressure.
• Time how long it takes to fill the bucket.
• Divide 60 by the number of seconds it took to fill the bucket. This gives you the flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM).

For example, if it takes 15 seconds to fill the bucket, your showerhead flows at 4 GPM. Anything above 2.5 GPM is considered inefficient by modern standards. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends a maximum of 2.0 GPM for WaterSense-labeled showerheads, which are widely available and certified for performance.

Once you’ve measured your flow rate, note your average shower duration. Multiply your flow rate by the number of minutes you shower to determine your total water use per shower. If you shower for 10 minutes at 4 GPM, you’re using 40 gallons per shower—nearly double the national average. This baseline will help you track progress as you implement changes.

Step 2: Install a WaterSense-Labeled Showerhead

One of the most effective and cost-efficient ways to reduce water usage is replacing your existing showerhead with a WaterSense-labeled model. These showerheads are independently tested and certified to use no more than 2.0 GPM while maintaining strong pressure and satisfying spray patterns.

In Denver, several local retailers—including Home Depot, Lowe’s, and local plumbing supply stores—offer WaterSense showerheads at competitive prices, often ranging from $20 to $60. Some even come with adjustable settings, pause buttons, or massage features that enhance the shower experience without increasing water use.

Installation is typically tool-free and takes less than 15 minutes:

1. Turn off the water supply to the shower.
2. Remove the old showerhead by twisting it counterclockwise (use a cloth to protect the finish).
3. Wrap the shower arm threads with plumber’s tape (Teflon tape) to ensure a watertight seal.
4. Screw on the new WaterSense showerhead by hand until snug.
5. Turn the water back on and test for leaks.

According to Denver Water, replacing a standard 2.5 GPM showerhead with a 2.0 GPM WaterSense model can save up to 2,700 gallons of water per person annually. For a family of four, that’s over 10,000 gallons saved each year.

Step 3: Reduce Shower Duration

Even with an efficient showerhead, long showers add up. The average Denver resident showers for 8–12 minutes daily. Cutting just two minutes off each shower can yield dramatic savings.

Here are practical ways to shorten your shower time:

• Use a timer or smartphone app to track your shower duration. Set a 5-minute limit and gradually reduce it to 4 minutes.
• Try the “Navy Shower” method: turn the water off while lathering, then turn it back on only to rinse. This technique can reduce usage to under 5 gallons per shower.
• Play a song that’s 3–4 minutes long and shower only during that time.
• Keep a towel and washcloth near the shower to quickly dry off and minimize lingering.

Showering less frequently isn’t necessary for hygiene—daily showers are often more about habit than health. For many, showering every other day or using a sponge bath on non-shower days is perfectly sufficient, especially in cooler months when sweat and dirt accumulation is minimal.

Step 4: Install a Shower Timer or Smart Shower System

For households seeking automation and accountability, installing a shower timer or smart shower system can provide real-time feedback and enforce water-saving habits.

Simple mechanical timers—like the Shower Timer by AquaSmart—attach to the showerhead and count down from a preset time (e.g., 5 minutes), then automatically shut off the water. These cost under $30 and require no electricity.

Smart shower systems, such as the Moen Smart Shower or Kohler DTV+, offer advanced features including:

• Memory settings for preferred temperature and flow
• Mobile app control
• Real-time water usage tracking
• Automatic shut-off after a set time

While these systems cost more ($200–$600), they’re ideal for tech-savvy households or those seeking long-term water conservation analytics. Many also integrate with smart home platforms like Alexa or Google Home for voice control.

Step 5: Insulate Hot Water Pipes

Denver’s cold winters mean that water traveling from your water heater to your showerhead can lose heat quickly. As a result, many residents run the shower for minutes waiting for hot water to arrive—wasting both water and energy.

Insulating your hot water pipes is a low-cost, high-impact solution. Foam pipe insulation sleeves, available at hardware stores for under $10 per 6-foot section, can be easily slipped over exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, or utility closets.

For pipes running through unheated areas, use self-adhesive insulation or heat-trace cables for added efficiency. Insulating your pipes can reduce wait time for hot water by 30–50%, saving 5–10 gallons per shower.

Step 6: Fix Leaks and Drips Immediately

A dripping showerhead or faucet can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year—enough to fill a small swimming pool. In Denver’s dry climate, even minor leaks are a significant loss.

To check for leaks:

• Turn off all water sources in the home.
• Check your water meter. If the dial is still moving, you have a leak.
• Place a dry paper towel under the showerhead overnight. If it’s wet in the morning, there’s a drip.

Common causes include worn washers, corroded valves, or mineral buildup. Replacing a washer or cartridge typically costs under $10 and takes 10 minutes. For persistent leaks, consult a licensed plumber familiar with Denver’s hard water conditions, which can accelerate fixture wear.

Step 7: Use a Shower Bucket to Capture “Gray Water”

While waiting for hot water, collect the initial cold water in a bucket. This “gray water” can be reused for:

• Watering indoor plants
• Flushing toilets (pour directly into bowl)
• Wiping down counters or mopping floors

Denver Water encourages gray water reuse for non-potable purposes. A 2-gallon bucket placed under the shower can capture 10–20 gallons per week, depending on shower habits. Over a year, that’s 500–1,000 gallons diverted from the sewer system and reused in the home.

Use a collapsible bucket with a handle for easy storage. Some Denver residents even install a small diverter valve under the sink to redirect cold water into a dedicated collection tank—though this requires minor plumbing modifications.

Step 8: Educate Household Members

Water conservation is a team effort. Children, roommates, and guests may not realize the impact of their shower habits. Create a simple chart or sticker system to encourage everyone to reduce usage.

For families:

• Turn water-saving into a game: reward kids with points for 5-minute showers.
• Post a reminder near the bathroom: “Denver’s water is precious. Keep it short!”
• Hold a monthly “Water Watch” meeting to review usage trends and celebrate savings.

For shared housing:

• Use a shared app like “WaterWise” to track individual usage.
• Agree on a maximum shower time (e.g., 5 minutes).
• Rotate responsibility for checking for leaks.

Community awareness is key. When neighbors adopt water-saving habits, the collective impact multiplies across Denver’s watersheds.

Best Practices

1. Prioritize Efficiency Over Luxury

Modern showerheads offer powerful sprays, rainfall effects, and multiple settings—all while staying under 2.0 GPM. Don’t assume that high flow equals better performance. WaterSense-certified models are engineered for pressure and coverage, even at low flow rates. Look for models with adjustable nozzles and pause functions to customize your experience without wasting water.

2. Avoid “Rinsing” Twice

Many people rinse their hair or body twice—once to remove soap, again to “make sure it’s clean.” This is rarely necessary. One thorough rinse, especially with a good-quality shampoo and body wash, is sufficient. If you feel residue, check your water hardness; hard water can leave soap scum, which may be addressed with a vinegar rinse or water softener—not longer showers.

3. Shower in Cooler Months with Purpose

In Denver’s winter months, sweat and dirt accumulate less. Many residents shower daily out of habit, not need. Consider sponge baths or dry brushing on days when you haven’t been physically active. This can reduce shower frequency by 2–3 times per week, saving hundreds of gallons monthly.

4. Schedule Showers Strategically

Staggering shower times in households reduces demand on the water heater, minimizing the need to reheat water. If multiple people are showering, space them 15–20 minutes apart. This allows the water heater to recover without running continuously, which saves both water and energy.

5. Use Low-Flow Settings on Multi-Function Showers

If your shower has multiple spray modes (e.g., massage, rain, mist), always choose the lowest-flow setting that still feels comfortable. The “rain” setting often uses more water than a focused “jet” setting. Test each mode with your bucket to see which delivers the best experience with the least water.

6. Avoid Hot Water Overuse

Heating water consumes energy and often requires longer run times to reach temperature. Lower your water heater thermostat to 120°F (49°C)—the EPA-recommended setting. This reduces scalding risk and shortens the time needed to heat water, decreasing the amount of cold water wasted while waiting.

7. Maintain Your Showerhead Regularly

Mineral deposits from Denver’s hard water can clog showerhead nozzles, reducing efficiency and increasing run time. Soak your showerhead monthly in a 50/50 vinegar and water solution for 30 minutes to dissolve buildup. Use a toothbrush to gently scrub nozzles. Clean showerheads flow better and use less water to achieve the same coverage.

8. Monitor Your Water Bill Monthly

Denver Water sends monthly bills that show your usage in cubic feet (1 cubic foot = 7.48 gallons). Track your household’s water consumption over time. A sudden spike may indicate a leak or behavioral change. Set a monthly conservation goal—e.g., “Reduce shower usage by 15% this month”—and review progress together.

9. Partner with Denver Water’s Conservation Programs

Denver Water offers free water-saving kits to residents, including low-flow showerheads, faucet aerators, and leak detection tablets. Visit their website or call to request one. They also provide personalized water audits and rebates for high-efficiency fixtures. Taking advantage of these programs ensures you’re using the most effective tools available.

10. Think Beyond the Shower

Water conservation is holistic. Reduce outdoor watering, fix dripping faucets, run full dishwasher and laundry loads, and install rain barrels. Every drop saved elsewhere reduces pressure on the entire system, making shower savings even more impactful.

Tools and Resources

Denver Water Conservation Programs

Denver Water, the city’s primary water provider, offers a robust suite of free and discounted resources to help residents reduce usage:

• Free Water-Saving Kits: Includes a WaterSense showerhead, faucet aerators, and a toilet leak detection tablet. Request online or by phone.
• Rebate Program: Up to $50 rebate for installing a WaterSense showerhead. Up to $100 for high-efficiency toilets.
• Water Use Dashboard: An online tool that lets you compare your usage to similar homes in your neighborhood.
• Free Home Water Audits: A specialist visits your home to identify leaks and recommend upgrades.

Visit denverwater.org to access all tools and apply for rebates.

Recommended WaterSense Showerheads (Denver-Tested)

These models have been tested by Denver Water and local residents for performance in hard water conditions:

• Delta Faucet 75152 – 1.75 GPM, adjustable spray, easy-clean nozzles
• AquaDance High Pressure 2-Way – 2.0 GPM, massage setting, durable brass construction
• Niagara Conservation Earth Massage – 1.5 GPM, ultra-efficient, lifetime warranty
• Kohler K-9977 – 1.5 GPM, sleek design, integrates with smart home systems

All are available at Denver-area retailers and eligible for rebates.

Shower Timers and Smart Devices

• Shower Timer by AquaSmart – Mechanical, $25, no batteries needed
• Flowo Smart Shower Controller – App-based, tracks usage, $120
• Moen Smart Shower – Voice-controlled, temperature memory, $350–$500

Online Tools and Apps

• WaterWise (App) – Tracks household water use, sets goals, sends reminders
• MyWaterDenver (Web Portal) – Real-time usage data, leak alerts, conservation tips
• USDA Water Calculator – Estimates personal water footprint, including showers

Local Workshops and Educational Resources

Denver Water hosts free monthly workshops at community centers across the metro area. Topics include:

• “How to Save Water in Your Bathroom”
• “Understanding Your Water Bill”
• “DIY Plumbing for Conservation”

Check the Denver Water Events Calendar for dates and registration.

Real Examples

Case Study 1: The Martinez Family – Saving 18,000 Gallons Annually

The Martinez family of Lakewood, Colorado, had four people showering daily for 10–12 minutes each using 2.5 GPM showerheads. Their monthly water bill was averaging $95.

They took these steps:

• Replaced all four showerheads with Niagara 1.5 GPM models ($120 total, $50 rebate received)
• Installed a $25 mechanical timer in the main bathroom
• Set a family rule: 5-minute showers only
• Collected cold water in a bucket for plant watering

Within three months, their water usage dropped by 62%. Their monthly bill fell to $36. Over a year, they saved 18,000 gallons—enough to fill two standard swimming pools. They now donate their savings to a local watershed nonprofit.

Case Study 2: The Henderson Apartment Complex – Building-Wide Conservation

A 12-unit apartment building in Northeast Denver had aging fixtures and high water bills. The landlord, concerned about rising costs and sustainability, invested $2,400 to replace all 12 showerheads with WaterSense models and install pipe insulation.

Results:

• Average monthly water use per unit dropped from 6,500 to 3,200 gallons
• Annual savings: 396,000 gallons
• Landlord passed 50% of savings to tenants as rent credits
• Building received Denver Water’s “Green Property” recognition

Tenants reported improved water pressure and no complaints about shower performance.

Case Study 3: A Denver College Student – Saving 1,200 Gallons Per Semester

Emma, a sophomore at the University of Denver, lived in a dorm with a 2.5 GPM showerhead and no control over timing. She started using a 5-minute timer app and collected cold water in a 2-gallon bucket. She used the water to flush the toilet and water her succulents.

She also switched to showering every other day during winter. Over a 15-week semester, she saved 1,200 gallons—equivalent to 160 loads of laundry. She shared her method with her roommate, who adopted it too.

Case Study 4: The Thompsons – From 10 Minutes to 4 Minutes

The Thompsons, a couple in Englewood, used to take long, relaxing showers—often 10–12 minutes—because they enjoyed the steam and warmth. After learning that their annual usage was 30,000 gallons, they decided to change.

They:

• Installed a Moen Smart Shower with a 4-minute auto-shutoff
• Used a Bluetooth speaker to play a 4-minute playlist
• Added a small heater in the bathroom to maintain warmth after showers

They now shower for exactly 4 minutes, six days a week. Their annual usage dropped to 12,000 gallons. They say the change felt unnatural at first—but now they prefer the rhythm and feel more connected to their environmental impact.

FAQs

Can I still have a satisfying shower if I use less water?

Absolutely. Modern WaterSense showerheads are engineered to deliver powerful, satisfying spray patterns using as little as 1.5 GPM. Many users report improved pressure and coverage compared to older, clogged fixtures. The key is choosing a high-quality, certified model—not reducing flow arbitrarily.

Is Denver’s water hard? Does that affect shower efficiency?

Yes, Denver’s water is considered moderately hard, with high levels of calcium and magnesium. This can cause mineral buildup on showerheads, reducing flow and efficiency. Regular vinegar soaks (once a month) will keep nozzles clear and maintain optimal performance.

How much money can I save by reducing shower water usage?

Denver Water charges approximately $0.004 per gallon for residential use. Saving 10 gallons per shower (by reducing time or flow) saves $0.04 per shower. For a person showering daily, that’s $14.60 per year. For a family of four, that’s over $58 annually—plus reduced energy costs for heating water, which can add another $30–$70 per year.

Do low-flow showerheads reduce water pressure?

No—not if you choose a certified WaterSense model. These showerheads use aerating technology or pulse technology to maintain pressure while reducing flow. Avoid cheap, non-certified “low-flow” models, which often feel weak. Stick to brands tested and recommended by Denver Water.

Can I get a rebate for installing a new showerhead?

Yes. Denver Water offers up to $50 in rebates for WaterSense-certified showerheads. Submit your receipt and product information online. Rebates are processed within 4–6 weeks.

What if my showerhead is built into a spa or luxury system?

Even high-end systems can be retrofitted with low-flow cartridges or flow restrictors. Contact the manufacturer or a Denver plumber familiar with luxury fixtures—they can often adjust the flow without replacing the entire unit.

Are there penalties for high water usage in Denver?

Denver Water does not impose penalties, but it does use tiered pricing. The more you use beyond your “baseline” allocation, the higher your rate per gallon becomes. Conserving water keeps you in the lower, more affordable tier.

How do I know if my showerhead is WaterSense certified?

Look for the WaterSense label on the box or product description. You can also search the EPA’s WaterSense product list at watersense.gov. Denver Water’s website also maintains a list of approved models.

Can I reuse shower water for my garden?

Gray water from showers can be used on ornamental plants and trees—but not edible gardens—due to soap and chemical residues. Use biodegradable, plant-safe soaps if planning to reuse. Always check Denver Water’s gray water guidelines before installing any diversion system.

What’s the biggest mistake people make when trying to save water in the shower?

Believing that turning off the water while lathering is enough. The real savings come from combining shorter showers with efficient fixtures. One without the other yields limited results. Also, ignoring leaks is a major oversight—small drips waste more than long showers.

Conclusion

Reducing water usage in Denver showers is not about sacrifice—it’s about smarter, more intentional living. With a combination of efficient technology, behavioral changes, and local support, every resident has the power to make a meaningful impact. Whether you’re installing a $25 showerhead, cutting two minutes off your daily routine, or collecting cold water for reuse, each action ripples outward—conserving a resource that sustains not just your home, but the entire Front Range ecosystem.

Denver’s future depends on the choices we make today. By taking control of your shower habits, you’re not just lowering your water bill—you’re becoming part of a community that values resilience, innovation, and stewardship. The mountains won’t refill themselves. But with every 5-minute shower, every WaterSense fixture, and every bucket of gray water reused, you’re helping ensure that Denver’s water remains abundant, clean, and available for generations to come.

Start today. Measure your usage. Replace your showerhead. Time your rinse. Share what you’ve learned. The water is counting on you.