How to Save Water
By the time you read this it may well have rained and the drought be over. At the time of writing, though, the forecast is for the drought to continue into October. Whether it is wet or dry it is clear that taking water for granted is not going to be an option as the summers get hotter and drier. Becoming much more conscious of how we use water will help conserve this precious life giving necessity.
So here are some more water and money saving tips.
In the home
Have a short shower rather than a bath – and shower less often. Even better, have a body wash using a flannel and just a basin of water.
Turning off the tap when brushing your teeth can save up to 18 litres a day.
Mend dripping taps.
When running the hot tap – collect the cold water in a saucepan or bowl for the garden or pot plants, until the hot comes through.
Wash fruit and veg over a bowl and use that water for plants.
Save ‘grey’ water for use in the garden.
Do the washing up once a day rather than after every meal.
Only use a dishwasher or clothes washer once full.
Flushing the loo uses a lot of water. There is no need to flush after every pee!
Use a water saving device in the cistern
Consider how often you change your clothes. Could they be worn for another day or two before washing? Washing machines use a lot of water.
In the garden
Have as many water butts as your garden will house to save water from the house, shed and greenhouse roofs. Water butts are available from most garden centres and hardware stores with the downpipe diverters. Collect rain water in any container.
Use a watering can rather than a hose. It is better to water fully around the root of a plant rather than little and often as the little evaporates very quickly and will not reach the roots. Water in the evening when it is cooler.
Use ‘saucers‘ under pot plants to stop water draining away quickly
