Water is one of the world’s most precious resources. Only 3% of the world’s water supply is freshwater – of this, only 1% is accessible for human consumption. Global water consumption has risen ten-fold since 1900, and many parts of the world are now reaching the limits of their supply.
In Australia, the world’s driest continent, an average person consumes 340 litres of potable water each day within their homes. Residential water use accounts for 64% of all water supplied by Sydney Water.
Why care about water quality? We swim and play in water. We drink water. Pollutants from urban developments that get into our waterways and pipes can affect our health and the surrounding environment.
Have you ever had the feeling money flows through your hands like water? If you haven’t fixed your leaks or installed water-saving appliances, you may be literally be pouring money down the drain.
Follow these top ten tips to save water and cut down your water bill, with the added bonus of helping out the environment. In a few easy steps, you can make sustainability second nature.
1- Fix those leaks
A dripping tap can waste over 40 litres of water a day – that’s the equivalent of having a second shower! Check your taps and pipes regularly and replace washers as soon as a leak appears.
2- Check your water meter
If the numbers on the meter are turning while no water is being used, you’ve probably got a leak. But what if you can’t find the leak? Read on…
3- Scout out leaky pipes
Got mouldy walls or constant damp patches in the garden, even when it’s sunny outside? Damp could indicate a hidden leaky pipe. Get in touch with a plumber with specialist leak finding equipment.Everyone wants to save the world, but no-one wants to do the dishes. Sad but true. But what if we could save the world, one dish at a time? Choose a 5-star rating dishwasher when installing or replacing an old one. Also, wait until you have a full load in your dishwasher before running it.
4- Become a dishwashing superhero
Everyone wants to save the world, but no-one wants to do the dishes. Sad but true. But what if we could save the world, one dish at a time? Choose a 5-star rating dishwasher when installing or replacing an old one. Also, wait until you have a full load in your dishwasher before running it.
5- Wash your dishes in the sink
If you just have a few dishes, you’ll save water and energy by washing up the good, old fashioned way – in the sink.
6- Get a water efficient showerhead
Newer models have a good flow compared to older versions and you can almost halve your water use. The higher the stars the better.
7- Take power showers
Take shorter showers. Three minutes, or one song, should be long enough. If you’re singing the entire Beatles discography, that’s TOO LONG!
8- Flush with pride
Choose a dual flush toilet or low-flow toilet.
9- Wait until you have a full load
What better excuse to put off your laundry until tomorrow than saving money on your water bill. Fill your washing machine before running it.
10- The Conscious Gardener
Choose the right plants for your soil and climate and you’ll unburden yourself from constant watering. Let nature do the work for you and sit back and relax.
