Want to cut your water bill and boost your home’s appeal in Lake Havasu City? The city launched a Water Conservation Rebate Program on September 1, 2024 that helps pay you back for select water‑wise upgrades. If you own a home or a small multi‑family property, you can pair practical savings with smart improvements. Below, you’ll learn what qualifies, how much water you can save, and how to apply with confidence. Let’s dive in.
What rebates are available
Lake Havasu City’s application lists four eligible upgrades for residential and small multi‑family properties. For the latest details and forms, review the city’s Water Conservation Rebate Program page.
- Turf removal and landscape conversion
- High‑efficiency toilets that carry the WaterSense label
- Smart irrigation controllers with WaterSense certification
- Swamp‑cooler (evaporative cooler) removal, with or without AC installation
The application requests manufacturer and model, installation or removal date, quantity, and purchase price. The city notes it may verify sales, delivery, and installation.
See the Lake Havasu City program page.
How much water you can save
Actual results vary by home and use patterns, but national and regional sources provide helpful ranges.
WaterSense toilets
Replacing older toilets with WaterSense models can reduce bathroom water use by roughly 20 to 60 percent. EPA WaterSense estimates a typical household retrofit can save around 10,000 to 13,000 gallons per year. Learn more about qualifying products from EPA WaterSense toilet guidance.
Smart irrigation controllers
Weather‑based or soil‑moisture controllers adjust watering to local conditions, which can cut outdoor waste by thousands of gallons per year. Savings depend on your landscape and current schedule. To explore potential savings, review the WaterSense calculator overview.
Turf removal and xeriscape conversion
Converting high‑water‑use grass to low‑water‑use landscaping and drip irrigation often delivers the largest outdoor savings. Arizona cities have reported substantial reductions at scale from turf conversion programs. For context on regional results, see this AMWUA summary of expanding conservation efforts.
Swamp‑cooler removal
Whole‑house evaporative coolers can use several thousand gallons of water per year in the Southwest, depending on unit size and operation. Replacing a swamp cooler removes that direct water use. If you switch to air conditioning, plan for higher electricity consumption, while efficient mini‑split systems may balance both energy and comfort needs. For a technical overview of evaporative cooling, review this discussion of evaporative cooling systems.
How the Lake Havasu rebate works
Because the city’s public application page does not list dollar amounts or caps, plan your project with these steps.
Step 1: Confirm eligibility and timing
- You must be a Lake Havasu City water customer in good standing.
- Purchases and installations must be on or after September 1, 2024.
- If you rent or manage a multi‑family property, secure owner authorization when required.
Step 2: Check requirements and funding
- Contact city Water Conservation staff to confirm current rebate amounts, any per‑item caps, and whether funds are first‑come, first‑served.
- Ask if pre‑approval is required for turf removal and what documentation is needed for verification.
- The program references support from Arizona’s Water Infrastructure Finance Authority. Funding levels can change, so it is wise to confirm availability. Learn more about WIFA’s role here.
Step 3: Choose qualifying products and plan the work
- Toilets and smart controllers must be WaterSense certified.
- For turf removal, clarify acceptable plant palettes, irrigation methods, artificial turf rules, and any minimum project size.
Step 4: Keep documentation
- Save itemized receipts and invoices.
- Take photos before and after, and note installation or removal dates.
- Be prepared for a verification visit, especially for landscape projects.
Step 5: Submit the application and follow up
- Complete the city form with model numbers, dates, quantities, and costs.
- Ask how payment is issued and expected timing after approval.
Planning tips for homeowners and small multi‑family
- Align upgrades. Pair a WaterSense controller with a plant‑appropriate drip system and mulch for sustained outdoor savings.
- Verify HOA rules. Many associations require approval for front‑yard changes and materials.
- Use licensed professionals. For plumbing, irrigation, and HVAC work, proper installation protects performance and rebate eligibility.
- Think long term. Choose durable fixtures and landscapes that are easy to maintain in Lake Havasu’s climate.
Will these upgrades help resale?
Water‑efficient fixtures and low‑water landscaping can make a property more attractive to many buyers who value lower utility bills and simplified upkeep. In competitive desert markets, a well‑executed xeriscape and modern, documented upgrades can help your home show better and stand out during showings. If you plan to sell in the next 6 to 24 months, consider completing select upgrades now so you can enjoy the savings and present a move‑ready property when you list.
If you want a property‑specific plan to maximize appeal and align improvements with your budget, reach out. With builder‑level insight and a luxury marketing platform, Brian Snodgrass can help you prioritize the right water‑wise upgrades before you buy or list in Lake Havasu City.
FAQs
Which Lake Havasu upgrades qualify for rebates?
- The city lists turf removal, WaterSense high‑efficiency toilets, WaterSense smart irrigation controllers, and swamp‑cooler removal on its application. Check the current list on the city’s program page.
How much money can I get back in Lake Havasu?
- The public application page does not show dollar amounts or caps. Contact Water Conservation staff to confirm current incentives, limits, and whether funds are first‑come, first‑served.
Do I need pre‑approval for turf removal in Lake Havasu City?
- Many Arizona cities require pre‑approval for turf conversion. Because Lake Havasu’s page does not specify public pre‑approval rules, call the city before starting to ensure eligibility.
What documentation does Lake Havasu require for rebates?
- Expect to provide model and manufacturer, installation or removal dates, quantities, purchase price, itemized receipts, and photos. The city may verify installation and larger projects may require inspections.
Will removing a swamp cooler increase my energy costs?
- Removing an evaporative cooler cuts water use but switching to AC can increase electricity use. Weigh comfort, efficiency options like mini‑splits, and total operating costs before deciding.
Can HOAs and multi‑family properties apply in Lake Havasu?
- The application references single‑family and apartment or multi‑family sites. Confirm eligibility and required owner or HOA approvals with the city before you begin.
Where can I find qualifying WaterSense products?
- EPA WaterSense lists qualifying products and offers savings tools. Start with guidance on WaterSense toilets and the WaterSense calculator overview.
