Conserving Water

I live in Perth, Western Australia, where water is a scarce and precious resource. Over the past decade, our government has been steadily working to educate people on why and how we should conserve water in our homes. 

 

I thought it would be good to share some of these tips with you; even if you don’t live in an area where water is scarce, conserving water will save you money!

House:

• fix leaks and drips as soon as possible
• install water-saving shower heads and tap (faucet) fittings
• put a bucket in your kitchen sink to catch otherwise wasted water (for example, when you first turn on your hot tap). Put some detergent in the bucket, and you can use this for rinsing hands or dishes as needed. Of course, empty it when dirty!
• put a bucket in your shower to catch otherwise wasted water; use this water for gardens
• look for water-use ratings and water-saving features when purchasing new appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines.

Yard and/or Gardens:

• water gardens before 8am or after 6pm, to miniminse water loss from evaporation
• set your reticulation for twice or three times a week only, and turn it off during the wet season
• mulch your garden beds
• consider your planting choices - is there an option to use a plant with lower water needs?
• investigate installing a rainwater tank to be used for gardens or grey water household use (laundry, toilet, etc).
• investigate pool covers to reduce evaporation

Do you practise water conservation in your home or garden? Do you have any other tips to share?