Water and Sewer Services-Water Rebates and Conservation

Toilet Replacement Program

In 2012, the Town of Vermilion launched a toilet replacement program, which gives residents an opportunity to receive a rebate ranging from $50 - $100 per toilet when replacing an old high volume toilet with a new water saving toilet.

• A faulty tap can leak up to a litre of water per day. Repair leaky faucets and always turn your tap off tightly so it does not drip. Even leaving your tap on a slow drip for indoor animals can increase your water bill considerably. 
• If your shower can fill a 4-litre bucket in less than 20 seconds, you may want to consider a water-efficient showerhead.
• If you accidentally drop an ice cube on the floor, use it in a houseplant instead of throwing it in the sink.
• Place a plastic bottle filled with sand or water in the toilet tank to reduce the amount of water used for each flush. Ensure it does not interfere with the operating mechanisms and that there is a minimum of 3 litres of water in the tank.
• If you accidentally drop ice cubes when filling your glass from the freezer, don't throw them in the sink. Drop them in a houseplant instead.
• Insulated hot water pipes run less water to get hot water to the faucet.
• Water monitoring equipment to help identify leaks as well as early indications of high water use.

• When you clean your fish tank, you can reuse the water on your houseplants. The water is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus, providing you with a free and effective fertilizer.
• Use a layer of organic mulch around trees and shrubs to reduce evaporation. You can also minimize evaporation by watering in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler and winds are lighter.
• A garden hose uses 1,100 litres of water per hour. Direct downspouts towards shrubs and trees to reduce the watering requirements of larger foliage.
• Large trees require a lot of water. Direct downspouts and other runoff towards shrubs and trees to provide more water coverage.
• Harvesting rainwater for use in lieu of irrigation.
• Use a screwdriver to test the moisture level of your lawn. If there is no resistance, then you do not need to water. You can also tell just by walking across the lawn, if you leave footprints, it is time to water.
• Taller grass retains more water. Keep grass 6 cm long to reduce watering requirements.
• Landscaping to minimize water use, such as xeriscaping.

• Indigenous trees, shrubs, herbs and flowers generally require less care and water.