Statistics show that households are responsible for consuming two-thirds of water in Melbourne. Due to the climatic changes and decreasing yearly rainfall, we must all be conscious of water usage at home.
If you are careful about how much water you use and minimise water wastage, you will not only see a dip in the water bill but also make a step towards sustainable living.
Leakages are the main reason for the water wastage at home. Whether it’s from a tap, pipe, or by other means, check every tap at your home so that water is not dripping even when it’s closed.
From monitoring your water-using habits to using water-efficient appliances, there are ways to be conscious of water usage. Today, we will look at those ways and other effective tips to decrease water wastage at home.
General:
- Always check for leaks, and if you notice one, get it repaired immediately
- Brush your teeth keeping the tap off. Use a glass to rinse and wash your mouth instead of keeping the tap running.
- While using a hose, be mindful and turn on only when you are ready.
- Scrape the dirty dishes and plates instead of rinsing them before putting them into a dishwasher.
- Always wash vegetables or fruits in a bowl of water instead of doing it from a running tap.
- If there is only dry waste on your driveway, use a broom or air blower instead of using a hose
- Always ensure all the faucets in your home are not leaking and working properly.
Effective water usage indoors:
- Install a water-efficient showerhead
Do you know that water-efficient showerheads save up to 10,000 litres of water each year? Install one if your current showerhead is leaky or damaged. You can also ask retail water companies if they have a showerhead exchange program.
- Invest in a water-efficient washing machine
Front-load washing machines are more water-efficient as they use up to 50% less than the water needed in top-load machines. Research a little before you buy a new washing machine and always choose 5-star rating machines. They are both water-efficient and energy-efficient.
- Invest in a dual-flush toilet
Dual-flush toilet saves more water as it has two buttons for two different water levels. You can get one for your primary bathroom as a water-efficient solution. Call a reliable plumber to install a dual-flush toilet so that there are no internal leaks.
Effective water usage outdoors:
- Water your garden wisely
When you are watering your garden matters a lot in saving water. If there is a hot weather forecast, water at night so that the plants have more time to absorb water. Use compost or mulch to preserve water in the soil so that it does not evaporate due to heat.
- Install a rainwater tank
For watering your garden, using rainwater is an excellent water-efficient solution. Make sure to build a rainwater tank to store the rainwater. Install a tap to it and use a pipe to water your plants after the monsoon ends.
Check if you need a permit in your area to build and maintain a water tank.
- Choose to grow native plants or plants that don’t require a lot of maintenance
Australia has a dry climate and native plants have evolved to withstand the dry weather conditions. If you want to choose a water-efficient garden, choose native plants to grow. You can also have plants that thrive with less water and don’t require a lot of maintenance.
- Use greywater for your plants
You can collect greywater from the last rinse of your washing machine or your bathroom to water your garden. As long as the water has low detergent and soap levels, you can use it within 24 hours of collecting to water your garden.
For more efficient use of water, you can install a permanent greywater system at your home and collect it to reuse the water for gardening. It also needs a permit before you can build a greywater system. Check the policies in your area before you proceed with the process.
Final thoughts
Being conscious of water usage and changing your habits will save a lot of water. You can see the result in the decreased water bills you get each month. Be aware of water issues at your home and you can make a step towards sustainable living.
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