How to Save Water (and Money!)

Here in Australia, knowing how to save water is something we all need to do; its importance cannot be overstated.

We are fortunate in this country to have quick and convenient access to clean drinking water, which is possibly why we’re often guilty of taking this essential resource for granted. Whilst we are the driest inhabited continent on earth, our water usage continues to be among the highest 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 a Water Efficient Shower Head

Typically, the shower is the biggest water consumer within the home. According to Western Australia’s Water Corporation, it accounts for roughly 24% of the average household’s water use.

Fortunately, you can buy eco-friendly water-saving shower heads that feel like a high-pressure, standard model. Along with the assistance of flow restrictors and aerators, these can potentially see your shower time water usage drop from a whopping 15-25 litres of water flow per minute to just 6-7 litres per minute.

High-tech, smart bathrooms are becoming increasingly 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 about time spent under the shower.

As relaxing as it can feel standing under the hot 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 keep it to around 4 minutes. 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!

Use Water Saving Dishwashers

Nowadays, most Australian households have a dishwasher installed in their kitchen. Contrary to popular belief, a water-efficient dishwasher can be a great way to save water.

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 and cutlery you wash.

If you are wondering which model is most suitable, pay attention to the water rating label. Alternatively, Metropolitan Plumbing offers a comprehensive dishwasher installation service. Our plumbers can provide qualified advice on which model will best suit your needs.

How to Save Water at the Kitchen Sink

Of course, not all homes have dishwashers, and handwashing is still required at the kitchen sink. Thankfully there are ways to save water cleaning up this way as well.

When handwashing, don’t do it under a running tap. That’s a one-way ticket to wasted water and a non-refundable ticket at that.

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

Only have the one sink? Don’t worry; we’ve got you. Just fill it 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 like a plastic bottle with a trigger nozzle.

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).

While we’re talking taps, instead of washing fruit or preparing vegetables underneath a running tap, fill up the sink with cold water and get them looking their best that way.

Toilet Considerations

Being conscious of the way you flush your toilet can also go a long way in saving water. Toilet water-saving measures can include:

• Using a half-flush button
• Upgrading your toilet to a more eco-friendly model and
• Fixing toilet leaks immediately

Metropolitan Plumbing can replace older toilets with 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.

Reduce Water Loss from Your Pool

Got a swimming pool in your backyard? Taking steps to minimise water loss can make a big difference in your overall water usage.

Evaporation is the main offender in this instance, but you can reduce evaporation loss by installing a pool cover. Not only does this help save water, but it also lowers energy costs by retaining warm water and reducing the need for heating.

Additionally, keeping your pool water at a moderate level, using windbreaks like hedges or fences, and avoiding overfilling can help conserve water. Regular maintenance will also ensure your swimming pool stays efficient while cutting down on wasted water.

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.