AURORA, Colo. -- Water costs money and with new pricing enacted in some cities, using too much water can cost a lot of money unless you find a way to control the flow.

That's happening in Aurora, where hundreds of homeowners are saving water and saving money with the help of a small black box. The Water Smart Reader, a small battery-operated gadget, allows residents such as Tom Tobiassen to test the water-using devices in his home.

"I wouldn't say that we're wasting (water), but we could better utilize it," he said. "It can account for every gallon."

The Water Smart Reader allows him to tap into information from his water meter.

"The reading that Tom receives from the transmitter is the exact same reading that we receive as we come by to read the meter on a monthly basis," said Bill Wobido of the city of Aurora's Utilities Department.

But the Water Smart reader gives Tobiassen an update anytime.

"I was most surprised by the washing machine," he said.

The washing machine is too expensive to replace right now but it's on his list. Almost immediately, though, Tobiassen replaced his old toilets.

"Right off the bat, I saved $3.65 on the first month," Tobiassen said.

"Now we are providing them information that allows them to manage their water usage," said Wobido.

Because of the device, Tobiassen is now watching water usage a lot more carefully.

"I am a true believer. This will save me some money for sure," he said.

The Water Smart Reader is currently only available in Aurora but other cities are looking at it. Installation and instruction usually take less than an hour.

The whole thing costs $55, but while the money lasts, there's a credit that cuts the cost to $30.

Where the Water Smart Reader really shines is helping you budget water usage to keep you from going from one rate to a higher use and a "much higher" rate.

Ask for the Water Smart Reader when you call the Aurora Utilities Department at (303) 739-7388.