Water-Use App Improves Water Conservation
A UC Riverside-led study found that a smartphone app called Dropcountr, which provides real-time water usage feedback, can significantly reduce household water consumption—by 6% on average, and up to 12% among the highest users.
Dropcountr connects to smart water meters and uses behavioral science techniques like nudges and social comparison to encourage conservation. It alerts users to leaks, high usage, and rate-tier thresholds, and allows utilities to send tips and rebates.
In the City of Folsom, where the study was conducted over six years, behavioral changes were sustained long-term, showing lasting impact. Leak alerts alone led to immediate and significant drops in water use.
The study argues that digital feedback tools like Dropcountr are a low-cost, effective way for California to meet its water conservation mandates, especially as climate pressures and drought regulations increase. Researchers urge broader adoption of such tools, especially as smart meter infrastructure grows.