How to Save Water (and Money)

Here in Australia, we are fortunate enough to have quick and convenient access to clean drinking water. Which is why we are often guilty of taking this essential resource for granted. Whilst we are the driest continent on earth, we continue to be one of the highest consumers of water per capita in the world.

As our population grows, so does our water use. With changes to rainfall patterns and the effects of global climate change, we need to conserve water now more than ever.

There are many easy ways you can save water in and around your home. Below we explore some practical water saving tips to help you save one of our planet’s most valuable resources as well as your hard-earned.

Switch To Water Saving Shower Heads

Typically, the shower is the biggest water consumer within the home. One of the easiest ways to save water is by switching to an eco-friendly water saving shower head. Along with flow restrictors and aerators, these work to restrict excess hot water flow, meaning you use less water during your much-loved shower time.

Fortunately, there are now eco-friendly shower heads in the market that replicate the feel of a high-pressure, standard showerhead, while actually using a lot less water. High-tech, smart bathrooms are becoming more and more popular, with the ability to save on your water bills whilst adding some pretty cool technology to your bathroom too.

On The Subject Of Showers…

While we’re at it, let’s talk time spent under the shower. As relaxing as it can feel standing under the warm water on a cold morning for as long as possible, the fact is you’re paying for that water. Consider taking shorter showers – maybe install a shower timer if that helps – and you’ll not only save time but you’ll save litres of water each morning. Multiply that by 365 days in a year and the volume of water you’ll save could be astronomical!

Fix Your Leaking Taps

One of the easiest water-wasting culprits to remedy is fixing water leaks – specifically, your leaking tap. Did you know a tap leaking at one drip per second wastes more than 12,000 litres of tap water per year? Leaking tap repairs are a simple job for a plumber and one that should be tended to immediately.

Other ways you can save water through your taps include installing flow regulators, installing mixer taps and choosing taps and basins that adhere to the WELS product rating scheme (we explore this further below).

Use Water Saving Dishwashers

Nowadays, most Australian households use a dishwasher. Contrary to popular belief, a dishwasher can actually be a great way to save water. You just have to ensure you have a water efficient model. Many modern dishwashers don’t require you to pre rinse the dishes before putting them in the machine. They also feature modes that adjust water usage to the number of dishes that need to be washed.

If you are wondering which model is most suitable, pay attention to the water rating label. Alternatively, Metropolitan Plumbing offers a dishwasher service and installation which includes providing advice on which model will best suit your needs.

But What If I Don’t Have A Dishwasher?

Of course, not all homes have dishwashers and still require handwashing at the kitchen sink. Thankfully you can still save water cleaning up this way as well.

When handwashing, don’t do it under a running tap. That’s a sure-fire way to waste water.

If your kitchen has two sinks, fill one with soapy water for cleaning, and the other with rinse water for… well… rinsing. Clean your dirty dishes in the soapy water before rinsing them off in the clean water.

Only have the one sink? Again fill that up with detergent-filled water and put out the dish rack beside it. Set up the washed dishes on the rack and rinse them off using a spray device.

Toilet Considerations

Being conscious of the way you flush your toilet can also go a long way in saving water. Toilet water saving efforts can include using a half-flush button, upgrading your toilet to a more eco-friendly model and fixing toilet leaks immediately. Metropolitan Plumbing can install dual flush toilets and provide upgrade advice to suit your particular requirements.

If you aren’t in the market for a toilet upgrade just yet, don’t worry. Why not try filling a plastic bottle and placing it in your cistern? By doing this, you use less water to fill the toilet tank and flush the toilet.

Use the WELS Product Rating System

Plumbing products and white goods are regulated under The Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme. The WELS scheme is a Government initiative designed to get us to choose more water efficient products for our homes. The easiest way for us to identify the best products for water efficiency is the label. This label outlines the star rating, the rate of water consumption and registration and product details.

The Australian Government predicts using water efficient products could save Australians more than $2 billion by 2030. That’s an average saving of $175 ​per household each year.

Wash Clothes In A Water Saving Way

In Australia, the quest to reduce how much water we use each day extends to how we wash our dirty clothes. Opt for a front loader washing machine. They’re known for being more water-efficient than top loaders. This is because they use gravity to tumble clothes instead of immersing them in water. Always wait until you have a full load before running your machine—this practice not only conserves water but also reduces your water bills.

Additionally, choose cold water cycles to save on hot water and energy. For those stubborn stains, pre-treat them to avoid running multiple cycles. Embrace these water-saving tips and watch your water bill and usage drop significantly.

Install A Rainwater Tank

Installing a rainwater tank is a smart move for Australian homeowners looking to collect rainwater. Doing this can help you reduce your reliance on tap water for gardening, washing dishes, and even flushing toilets.

Ensure you have a licensed professional install your rainwater tank, and check if your water supplier offers rebates or incentives for rainwater tank installation. This addition to your home both helps conserve water and prepares you for drier times ahead.

Saving Water Is Easier Than You Think!

In addition to these practical water-saving tips for your home, Metropolitan Plumbing provides expert plumbing services to help with your efforts to save water. Contact us today.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.