#4 Here Are The Best Ways To Use Less Water And Make Every Drop Count

In the next phase of the journey to becoming a savvy homeowner, we look for ways to reduce water consumption and secure accessible alternative water supply for the home.

The past few articles have discussed ways to reduce household energy consumption. Lighting and heating water are good places to start making changes to achieve that.

South Africa is a water-scarce region and access to potable water (drinking water) and grey water (wastewater from showers, baths, basins, and washing machines) is not always ‘on tap’. Grey water can be used to water the garden, flush toilets, wash cars etc. We’re going to have to get used to using water more than once where we can.

We can also find ways to reduce water consumption in the home by making small changes in our everyday lives. Be aware of how much water you are using and find ways to prevent wasting this valuable resource.

Easy ways to conserve water and lower your water bill:

•  Shower rather than bath as it uses less water.
• Adjust shower heads to low flow instead of normal.
• Add aerate filters to taps.
• Install high efficiency, or low flow toilets.
• Make sure dishwashers are full before using.
• Turn the water off while you are brushing your teeth or shaving.
• Don’t wash dishes under running water, rather use a sink of water.
• Make sure you understand the settings on your washing machine to use the correct amount of water for the load size.
• Don’t use toilets as dustbins. Flushing away facial tissues or sanitary products should be prevented.
• Always make sure leaky pipes or taps are fixed.
• If watering your garden, use harvested water and never water your garden on a windy day.

All it takes is an awareness that every drop counts and the little savings will add up.

In the next article in our 13-part series on becoming a savvy homeowner, we investigate what is required to harvest your own rainwater. It might be easier and more affordable than you think!

Ready to invest in a power or water saving solution for your home? If you’re an SA Home Loans client, we'll help you finance it through your home loan.