It has been revealed water usage across Queensland has surged from 180 to 200 litres per person, per day in the past month.
The increase has prompted authorities to reveal several money-saving tips to avoid bill shock.
Irrigation specialist Jeffrey Dean told 9NEWS home owners should look at their backyard to save the most money.
Mr Dean tap timers were the “perfect solution” to avoid over-watering gardens, adding budget-friendly timers, available from about $19, were “just as effective” as high-tech systems.
“Most smaller systems are very do it yourself they will connect to the garden tap without needing a lot of plumbing done,” Mr Dean said.
Limiting the watering time of plants can also help cut costs.
Inside the home, Urban Utilities suggested doing one full dishwasher load per day, instead of two half-loads, to save $20 per year.
“If you're only doing a small load, just make sure you adjust the water level from high to low,” Michelle Cull said.
Further savings can be made in the bathroom, where $100 can be pocked from reducing shower time from seven minutes to four.
“By making a few simple behavioural changes inside your home, it can really add up,” Ms Cull said.