Peter Mayer was co-principal investigator of the Residential End Uses of Water, Version 2 (2016) published by the Water Research Foundation. This study documents a 15% decrease in average indoor per capita use and describes future conservation potential in the residential sector.
A Deep Dive into Residential Water Use: Insights from WRF’s Landmark Study
In the world of water resource management, understanding exactly how water is used in our homes is crucial for effective planning and conservation. The Water Research Foundation’s (WRF) “Residential End Uses of Water, Version 2” stands as a comprehensive update to the original 1999 study, offering fresh insights into how single-family residences consume water across the United States and Canada.
What’s New in Version 2?
Building on the foundation of its predecessor, Version 2 expands the scope of research by including a wider array of site locations and introducing new data streams. Notably, the study incorporates detailed hot water end use data and a more nuanced analysis of landscape irrigation—two factors that play a significant role in household water consumption. Additionally, the research delves deeper into water rates, offering utilities more robust data for planning and rate-setting.
Why Does This Matter?
For water utilities, city planners, and conservationists, accurate data on residential water use is more than just a curiosity—it’s a necessity. The detailed findings from this study allow stakeholders to refine engineering estimates, design more effective conservation programs, and make informed decisions about water supply planning. With climate change and population growth placing increasing pressure on water resources, such data-driven approaches are more important than ever.
Collaborative Effort
This project reflects a broad collaboration among utilities and organizations across North America, including the City of Fort Collins, City of Scottsdale Water Department, Denver Water, Tacoma Public Utilities, and many others. Such partnerships underscore the shared commitment to sustainable water management.
Looking Ahead
While the data from Version 2 has been discontinued as of April 2025, the legacy of this research continues. The recently released Version 3 promises to further enhance our understanding of residential water use patterns, ensuring that communities have the tools they need to steward this vital resource.
For anyone interested in the future of water management, the WRF’s ongoing research is a valuable resource—and a reminder that every drop counts.
