Water Use

Water Use

  • Rain water collection
  • Greywater recycling
  • Water efficient devices

Water use

  • Rainwater is a valuable natural resource that be collected for household use in above ground or underground tanks:
    • Above ground tanks are usually the cheapest.  Consider slimline and wall line tanks that can fit into narrow spaces.
    • Underground tanks save on space and have greater catchment potential.  However, this option can be more expensive and requires excavation.  Consider systems that capture water via infiltration through the grass lawn or garden.
  • You can examine historical rainfall in your area by visiting the Bureau of Meteorology website to estimate capture potential and tank size required
  • Captured rainwater can be used to:
    • provide a supply of “restriction free” water to protect and water gardens
    • reduce water bills by using rainwater to water gardens, flush toilets, wash cars, top up pools and wash clothes
    • reduce community infrastructure costs
  • Grey-water systems are available to recycle water from the washing machine / shower for use in your garden, however, recycled water must be used within 24 hours of capture
  • Aside from collecting rainwater and recycling to increase the supply of water to your home, there are many ways to reduce demand, including:
    • Check for leaks in taps, pipes, dishwasher hose, etc.  One leaking tap can waste more than 2,000 litres per month
    • Prevent taps from leaking by turning taps of lightly and replace washers as soon as they begin to leak
    • Automatic dishwashers can use up to 40 litres of water per load. By using a dishwasher with at least a 3 star / AAA rating, you can get this figure down to 18 litres per load. Wait until you have a full load in your dishwasher before using it. This saves water and energy, and reduces the amount of detergent entering the sewerage system.
    • Install water efficient taps or tap aerators in kitchens and bathrooms
    • Wash fruit and vegetables in a half-filled sink instead of under running water
    • Try to use phosphate-free, eco-friendly detergents and cleaning products
    • Most washing machines have a load adjustment button or dial, so try to set this to match the amount of washing you’re doing. If your machine doesn’t have a load adjustment function, try to wait until you have enough washing for a full load.
    • Installing a 3 star / AAA rated showerhead can give you a great shower and save you around 10 litres of water a minute. They also save energy costs, as you’ll use less hot water.
    • Try to keep the water level of your pool halfway up the skimmer opening. Overfilling the pool stops the skimmer working efficiently and wastes water.
    • A pool cover is an easy way to reduce evaporation and the need to regularly top up your pool’s water level. Without a cover, more than half the water in your pool can evaporate over a year.
    • By whatever means, watering your garden in the evening reduces loss through evaporation
    • Choosing local native varieties and other water wise plants attracts wildlife and means less maintenance and watering