What should be the average water consumption in a house?

This information will give us the basis to start saving water.

Water is a vital resource that influences all aspects of daily life, from personal hygiene to food production. Water consumption in a household varies significantly due to a number of factors, such as socioeconomic status, geographic location and consumption habits.

In this article, we will explore how the average water consumption in a home is measured, as well as the general averages that should be in a home.

Why and how is water consumption measured?

Water consumption is measured to monitor and manage the responsible use of this vital resource. Water meters installed in homes are used to record the amount of water used in cubic meters (m³) and each household receives a monthly water bill showing the previous month’s consumption.

These meters provide accurate data that allow authorities and users to evaluate their consumption and take measures to conserve water when necessary.

What factors affect the basic water consumption in a house?

Basic water consumption varies according to factors such as socioeconomic status and geographic location. In warm and temperate zones, households classified as low to middle income consume an average of 15 to 16 m³ per month.

In cold areas, this consumption can be slightly reduced to between 12 and 13 m³ per month. These ranges represent the essential consumption to meet the basic needs of an average family.

consumo promedio de agua en una casa

What is the average water consumption?

In a house, the average water consumption in a household should be around 20 m³ per month. However, this average may vary depending on the number of people in the household and their consumption habits.

For example, a typical four-person household may consume between 18 and 25 m³ of water per month. This range reflects a more diversified level of consumption, including additional activities such as watering gardens or filling swimming pools.

What would be the high water consumption?

High water consumption generally refers to those households that use significantly more water compared to established averages. While there is no exact limit defining high consumption, on average, high water consumption is considered to be above 25 m³ per month.

High water consumption is seen in households with more than five people. Other factors, such as the presence of swimming pools, large gardens that require frequent watering, or consumption habits that involve excessive water use, can also contribute to high consumption.

In summary, average household water consumption varies according to a variety of factors, but understanding this data can help households better manage their use of this essential resource, and thus reduce the monthly or annual cost that arrives at the water bill.