Australia is notorious for being a hot, dry, arid area—at least in parts of the country. It feels even worse when rain is scarce. In 2019 the country experienced a drought which resulted in level 2 water restrictions being implemented in some areas. This just reminded everyone how important responsible water usage is—and should be in all households.
Water leaks are the number one issue a plumber Sunshine Coast based or almost anywhere else in Australia has to deal with. Aside from wasting a precious resource, you’ll also have an increased water bill! So, how can you prevent this and benefit your pocket and the environment?
Water Saving Dos and Don’ts
To avoid an elevated water bill or a situation where people have to face water restrictions, it’s always a good idea to conserve water. The good news is, you don’t have to install elaborate mechanisms or spend a fortune.
Saving water can be done daily, by everyone in the household, by following a few simple disciplines. Read on and see where you can implement a few common water dos and don’ts.
Shower Time
Many people enjoy a long, hot bath after a stressful day. However, few people realise that the average bath uses over 90 litres of water; this is assuming the bath is about half full. If you add more water, your usage will obviously be more.
The average shower head uses about 15 – 20L per minute. Water consumption through your shower can be saved in a two-fold way. Shower rather than bath and take shorter showers.
By spending a maximum of 4 minutes in the shower, you will save a considerable amount of water. Discipline younger members of the family by setting a timer in the bathroom so that they know to switch off the water once the timer’s alarm goes off.
Bathroom Sink Habits
Do you often leave the water running when you’re brushing your teeth? Give some thought to how much water is simply running down the sink! A good way to save some water is to close the tap while you’re brushing your teeth. Only open the tap to rinse your mouth and toothbrush.
Grey Water
One of the biggest ways to reduce water usage is to re-use your bath or shower water. This re-used water is called grey water.
Speak to your local plumber to assist with the installation of a pipe that leads from your bath or shower drain to the garden. Alternatively, place a bucket in the shower to scoop up as much used water as possible. Use this water on your grass or plants. Speak to your plumber about the best ways to siphon shower water from your bath or shower.
Dishwasher
Another way to conserve a great deal of water at once is by using a dishwasher instead of washing dishes by hand. If you’ve already converted to a dishwasher, ensure that the machine is always full before switching it on. If your dishwasher has an “eco” option, select it to save even more water.
Instead of rinsing your dishes before you place them in the dishwasher, rather wipe excess food off with a paper towel and discard in the bin. Rinsing the dishes before you place them in the dishwasher is actually just double work and unnecessary water wastage.
Rethink Your Landscaping Choices
Every homeowner wants a lavish garden filled with all types of exotic plants. However, it’s important to note that exotic plants aren’t always drought resistant. Native plants require less water and benefit the local eco-system in your garden.
Eliminate Leaks in and Around Your Home
Your local plumber will tell you that one of the top ways to conserve water is to ensure that you have no water leaks on your property. A dripping tap can waste more than 20,000 litres of water every year.
Call your plumber to assist you in fixing even the smallest leaks in and around your home. Your plumber will also be able to advise you on replacing taps or appliances that are consuming too much water.
Reduce Water in the Kitchen
Cooking also uses a considerable amount of water. Rinsing produce, cooking and cleaning up afterwards can often result in litres of water just washing down the drain.
The number one trick in your kitchen is to not leave the water running while you’re rinsing produce. Either place a plug in the sink or alternatively, pour some water in a bowl and use the same water to rinse all your produce. Pour the used water in the garden afterwards.
Laundry
When it comes to your laundry, a lot of water is wasted if you wash small loads every day. Always ensure you have a full load before doing washing. Another way to save money with your laundry is to opt for cold rather than hot water. On the plus side, you’ll minimise any potential fading as well as saving water and energy.
Final Thought
No matter where you live, or how much water you have available in your area, it’s always an excellent idea to save water. Saving water will reduce your water bill and conserve water around your home. It’s a brilliant way to do your part toward looking after the earth a little better!
