Article:
Waterwise
Did you know?
Australians are among the highest water users in the world. Water use in and around the home accounts for 70% of Sydney's total water consumption. Nationwide, households are the second largest user of mains water after agriculture.
Water is a precious resource we need to conserve today.
Fact
Level 3 mandatory water restrictions now apply across Sydney, Illawarra and the Blue Mountains. For other locations, check with your local council to find out what restrictions apply in your area.
What can I do?
With water restrictions and drought becoming more prevalent we need to reduce our water consumption.
Simple changes can make a big difference:
Inside the home
With 48% of Sydney's water consumed within the home, it's time to examine our consumption habits. How is water used in the bathroom, laundry and kitchen? Are there areas for improvement or ways to cut back on wastage?
Easy ways to make a difference:
- Install AAA-rated showerheads – you can save around 10 litres of water a minute
- Install water saving devices like dual-flush toilets, tap aerators and other flow regulators in your taps and showerheads
- Choose appliances and whitegoods with a high water saving rating
- Turn off the tap while cleaning your teeth – you can save around 5 litres of water every time
- Keep pipes and taps in good order – fix leaks and dripping taps promptly
- Insulate hot water pipes to shorten the time you have to leave the tap running before you get hot water
- Operate your washing machine and dishwasher only when you have a full load
- Reuse water from your bath, shower and laundry to water your garden
- Use a broom to clear and clean hard surfaces
- Wash fruit and vegetables and rinse dishes in a plugged sink or bowl instead of under running water
Outside the home
On average, people use a quarter of their household water on the garden. Do you use water efficiently outside your home? Is there room for improvement?
Easy ways to make a difference:
- Wash vehicles, outdoor furniture and the family pet on the grass – this will water your lawn and keep pollutants from waterways
- Only water when the garden really needs it #
- Add mulch to your garden and potted plants to reduce watering needs
- Reduce evaporation by covering your pool, and water the garden during the cooler parts of the day #
- Use a trigger nozzle on your hose #
- Review and adjust watering systems regularly to suit the changes in season, plant demands and water restrictions #
- Install a timer on your watering system and check regularly for leaks and faults #
- Install a rainwater tank or other collection and diversion devices
- Choose native plants and grasses that require less water than exotic species
# Check water restrictions