Phoenix Water training outlines rebates, free efficiency consultations and how residents report leaks

Trainer, Water Conservation Trainer for the City of Phoenix Water Services Department, told trainees the department offers incentives, free consultations and reporting channels to help residents conserve and address leaks. The trainer said the department receives grants to provide incentives for efficient toilets, smart irrigation controllers and grass removal, noting grass removal incentives are $2 per square foot. The trainer also described a free home efficiency consultation service and a water budget calculator on the department website to help customers estimate bills based on gallons used. Why it matters: Staff framed these programs as practical tools volunteers can point residents to when answering questions about high bills, leaks or how to save water. On billing and leaks, the trainer said rates reflect utility operating costs and that an unusually high bill is often a sign of a leak. "You're probably gonna wanna ask if their bill has been unusually high, because this is the main indicator that they have a leak," the trainer said. Staff advised volunteers to suggest scheduling a free efficiency consultation and to encourage residents to check for odd smells, dripping sounds and broken devices. Reporting: The trainer said field workers respond to public reports of leaks and that if water is leaking onto the street residents can contact the water conservation team; the department can send a notice of water waste if the customer prefers not to be directly involved. What volunteers should say when they don’t know an answer: The trainer instructed volunteers to avoid spreading misinformation and to offer to collect contact information so staff experts can follow up: "Sorry, I don't have an answer for you, but if you give me your contact info, I can have the experts reach out," the trainer said. Ending: Volunteers were given contact channels (conservationphoenix dot gov; watersmartphoenix dot gov for news-related items; wsd.incentivesphoenix dot gov for incentive questions) and a reminder that many programs and resources are available to homeowners, renters, businesses and HOA boards.