Water is a valuable resource that should be used wisely and responsibly. Simple changes in
daily habits can significantly increase water consumption efficiency, lower utility costs
and help preserve water resources for future generations.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms are one of the highest water-consuming areas in the home. Everyday activities such
as showering, handwashing and flushing account for a significant share of household water
use, making this area an important focus for water conservation.
Tips & Best Practices
- Avoid long showers. Shortening your shower time by just a minute or two can save up to 150 gallons of water a month.
- Keeping the tap closed while shaving can save more than 100 gallons of water each week.
- Replace tap filters and showerheads around the house with water flow reducers. Water flow reducers on taps save more than 30% of water.
- When regulating water temperature, reduce the flow instead of increasing it to achieve the desired balance.
- Switch off your water heaters during summer as the warmer weather often provides naturally heated water.
- Don't throw waste down your toilet as it leads to unnecessary flushing and increases the risk of your toilet getting blocked.
- Upgrade toilets to newer improved models with dual flush systems to save water and money in the long run.
- Fix faulty flush handles. A handle that sticks can cause continuous water flow, so repair or replace it promptly.
- By turning off the tap when you brush your teeth, you can save approximately three gallons of water. Filling a cup to rinse your mouth saves about four gallons.
- Collect water while waiting for it to heat up after turning on the tap and use it to water your house plants.
- Invest in a good quality exhaust fan and do not leave it on for long hours.
- Insulate your water-heater and water pipes. This helps deliver hot water faster and reduces wastage from waiting for it to heat up.
Kitchens
The kitchen is used every day for food preparation, cooking and cleaning, making it a major
contributor to household water consumption. Efficient use of water in the kitchen helps
reduce waste while supporting everyday household activities.
Tips & Best Practices
- Wash fruits and vegetables in a bowl or partially filled sink instead of running water, which you can use to water your plants when done.
- If you accidentally drop ice cubes when taking some from the freezer, don't throw them in the sink. Drop them in pots carrying house plants instead.
- Don't use running water to thaw frozen meat and food. Defrost it overnight in the refrigerator, or if you have a microwave, use the defrost setting.
Landscaping & Irrigation
Gardens and landscaped areas require regular watering to maintain healthy plants and green
spaces. Applying efficient irrigation practices can help increase water consumption
efficiency while maintaining the beauty and health of outdoor landscapes.
Tips & Best Practices
- To help plants retain moisture, spread a layer of organic mulch around them. This will save water, time and money.
- Your garden does not need to be watered daily. Check the soil moisture two to three inches below the surface. Water only when the soil is dry.
- Use drip irrigation system for shrubs and trees so that water goes straight to the roots, preventing run-off.
- Regularly check your sprinkler system valves for leaks.
- Modify irrigation settings based on weather, plant and lawn requirements throughout the year.
- Install an automatic shut-off valve on the sprinkler system so that it turns off when it rains.
- Water roots, not leaves.
- Remove weeds or dead plants from your garden to prevent unnecessary water consumption.
Outdoors
Outdoor spaces – including swimming pools, fountains, driveways – can consume considerable
amounts of water. Managing water use efficiently in these areas helps reduce waste while
maintaining a clean and comfortable home environment.
Tips & Best Practices
- Use a pool cover to reduce evaporation, keep the pool cleaner and minimise the need for chemical use.
- If you use an inflatable pool, make sure you reuse the water for garden irrigation.
- Ensure fountains recycle water rather than continuously using fresh supply.
- Use a bucket of soapy water or place a shut-off nozzle on the end of your hose to wash your car efficiently.
- Use a broom to clean your driveway or sidewalk instead of running water.
- Make sure you clean water tanks in the house regularly so that they stay clean and hygienic.
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