Check for leaks in taps pipes and dishwasher hoses. Remember one leaking tap can waste more than 2 000 litres a month.
Prevent leaks by turning taps off lightly and replacing washers as soon as they begin to wear.
Don’t leave the tap running whilst brushing your teeth. Wet your toothbrush before you begin and use a glass of water to rinse your mouth.
The most water-efficient methods for cooking vegetables are microwaving steaming or using a pressure cooker. You can also reduce evaporation by using tight lids on pots and simmering instead of boiling rapidly.
Install water-efficient taps or tap aerators. They are a great inexpensive way to cut water usage.
Put the plug in the sink when washing your hands instead of holding them under running water.
Thaw frozen foods before you need them or use the microwave instead of placing them under running water.
Automatic dishwashers use up to 40 litres of water per load. By using a dishwasher with at least a 3 star / AAA rating you can reduce usage to 18 litres per load and still get sparkling clean dishes.
Wait until you have a full load in the dishwasher before using it. This saves water and energy and reduces the amount of detergent entering the sewerage system.
Keep a container of water in the fridge so that you won’t need to run the tap until it’s cool enough to drink.
Wash fruit and vegetables in a half-filled sink instead of under running water.
Rinse your dishes in a plugged sink rather than under a running tap.
Use a sink strainer.
Try to use phosphate-free eco-friendly detergents and cleaning products. There’s a great range to choose from and they’re much better for our environment.
Remember to regularly clean the lint filter on your washing machine.
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 one of the latest 3 star/AAA rating showerheads can give you a great shower and save you around 10 litres of water a minute. They also save you energy costs because you’ll be using less hot water.
To rinse your razor run a little water into a plugged sink instead of under a running tap.
Electric or fuel powered leaf blowers work more efficiently than hosing down paths and driveways.
Pool covers prevent evaporation and reduce the amount of water you need to keep your pool full.
