In the house
- Keep drinking water in the fridge to avoid running water down the sink.
- Take shorter showers and turn off the tap when brushing teeth or shaving.
- Thaw frozen foods in fridge or microwave, not under the tap.
- Wash vegetables or rinse dishes in a plugged sink.
- Use the washing machine and dishwasher only when full, using the economy cycle.
- Turn taps off firmly and replace washers as soon as they start leaking.
- Install a water-efficient showerhead and fit tap aerators to taps to reduce usage.
- Repair any leaking toilets and use the half-flush.
- Buy new appliances with a high water-efficiency rating.
- Detect hidden leaks: record the numbers on your water meter before bed and again in the morning. If you used no water and the numbers differ, there could be a hidden leak.
In the garden
- Select the plants most compatible to your area.
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Group plants with similar watering needs together.
- Use a watering can or a trigger nozzle on a hose to water the garden.
- Compost kitchen scraps and garden waste.
- Mulch around plants to reduce water evaporation.
- Wash the car on the lawn to water and fertilise the grass.
- Double your soil's water holding ability by increasing its depth, making it less compacted and adding composted organic material.
- Remove weeds quickly - they are water thieves.
- Install a rainwater tank.
- Install a grey-water reuse system for watering gardens and washing cars.