Outdoors:
Use mulch to keep your garden cool and moist.
Water the garden at cooler times of the day, in the morning or evening, to minimise evaporation and water wastage.
Avoid watering in a Nor'west wind as it quickly evaporates the water.
Do not hose down paths and driveways; use a broom.
Spreading a layer of organic mulch around plants retains moisture and saves water, time and money.
Collect the water you use for rinsing fruits and vegetables, and then reuse it to water houseplants.
When cleaning out fish tanks, give the nutrient-rich water to your plants.
Don't use running water to thaw food. Defrost food in the refrigerator for water efficiency and food safety.
Consult with your local nursery for information on plant selection and placement for optimum outdoor water savings.
Wash your car with a bucket of water on the lawn and you'll water your lawn at the same time.
Share water conservation tips with friends and neighbours.
Report broken pipes, open hydrants and errant sprinklers to the property owner or the Council.
Use water efficient, hand-held gun nozzles on your hoses.
Wash your pets outdoors in an area of your lawn that needs water.
Indoors:
- Turn off the tap while you are brushing your teeth and you will save 10L of water a minute.
- Rinse, don't soak – take a short shower instead of a bath and you will save up to 70L of water.
- Every time you flush the toilet you use 13L–20L of water, so make sure you only flush when you need to.
- Do not switch on the dishwasher or washing machine until you have a full load ready to go.
- Rinse and peel vegetables in a bowl or sink instead of running them under the tap – you could save up to 10L every minute.
