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Citrus County Utilities has kicked off the 2012 rebate program.  Offered to its’ utility customers on an annual basis, rebates of up to $100 are issued as incentive to replace older inefficient fixtures with high-efficiency products.

Qualifying products include replacing old toilets, rain sensors and clothes washing machines, as well as adding moisture sensors to irrigation systems.  Thanks to a generous 50/50 matching grant through Withlacoochee Regional Water Supply Authority, customers that take advantage of the incentive program receive a credit on their water bill, and should see lower monthly water bills as a result of the newly installed product.

Citrus County Utilities has offered these rebates for the past four years in an effort to reduce the amount of potable water its customers use.  “Replacing toilets installed prior to 1995 is the biggest water saver indoors, while installing moisture sensors on an existing irrigation systems is the largest water saver outdoors,” said Citrus County Water Conservation Coordinator Debra Burden adding, “rain sensors also save a significant amount of water and typically need replacing at least every five years, we have a rebate for that as well.”

According to Burden, high efficiency toilets average 1.28 gallons per flush compared to older models that use between three and a half to seven gallons per flush.  Likewise, adding a moisture sensor to an existing irrigation system can reduce outdoor water use by as much as sixty percent, according to a 2005 University of Florida study.  “It’s just smart to install a moisture sensor,” said Burden, “not only can it reduce one’s monthly utility bill; the county is practically paying its users to install them.”

For details on qualifying rebate products, and to download an application, visit Water Resources’ website at www.citruscountyfl.org.  Once the product is purchased and installed, submit the original dated sales receipt with the completed application form to the Water Conservation Coordinator at 3600 W. Sovereign Path, Suite 226, Lecanto, FL 34461.  Applications must be received by 06/15/2012.

Rebates are limited and will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis until funding is exhausted.  Approved rebate recipients will receive a credit on their utility account.  Participants in the program must be customers of Citrus County Utilities. Rebates are not available for new construction. Additional details can be found on the utility’s website or by calling the Water Conservation Coordinator at (352)527-7684.