Install a rainwater tank
No matter where you are in Australia, a rainwater tank can at least partially offset your mains water usage.
A rainwater tank can collect many thousands of litres of water each year. What size of tank you install will depend on the available space, the size of your roof, and rainfall patterns in your area.
Reuse your greywater
Whether you use the simple 'bucket' method to collect greywater, or have a complete greywater collection and reuse system installed, reusing this valuable resource can greatly reduce your water use.
It makes very little sense allowing water that has only been used to rinse clothes in a washing machine (unless you are washing nappies), or rinse a human in the shower, to go straight into the sewer.
Buy efficient appliances
New appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers have water ratings labels on them that tell you how much water they use. If you have an appliance that needs replacing, then you should look for a machine that uses as little water and energy as possible.
Checking for leaks in taps, pipes and dishwasher hoses is an easy way to reduce water wastage. Remember, one leaking tap can waste more than 2,000 litres a month.
• To check your home for leaks, turn off every tap and appliance that uses water, then read your water meter. Wait a while (overnight if you can), and read again. If the meter has ticked over, something's leaking. Check your toilets and taps first.
Insulate hot water pipes. This avoids wasting water while waiting for hot water to flow through and saves energy.
Make sure your hot water system thermostat is not set too high. Adding cold water to cool very hot water is wasteful
Install water softening systems only when necessary. Save water and salt by running the minimum amount of regenerations necessary to maintain water softness. Turn softeners off while on vacation
High water pressure increases flow rates from showers, taps, leaks and drips. If you have extreme high water pressure, a registered plumber can fit a pressure reduction valve at your property boundary
A pool cover is a clever way to reduce evaporation and the need to regularly top up your pool's water level. Without a cover, more than half the water in your pool can evaporate over a year.
Keep all your kitchen scraps, lawn clippings and garden waste - they're perfect for homemade compost, which your soil will love.
A good soaking every now and then with a hand-held hose will help make your lawn more drought resistant by encouraging deeper roots. (Some water restrictions prohibit watering of lawns)
It is important to check if your lawn really needs a drink. If the lawn springs back after stepping on it, it doesn't require watering.
When mowing the lawn don't cut the grass shorter than 2cm. If the lawn is too short it will burn because it has no leaf protection. Taller grass also holds and contains water better.
To assist the establishment of your new lawn and to minimise the amount of water it requires, it is recommended that you apply a light top dressing to your lawn.
During summer aerate the soil to help improve its condition. Feed and don't over fertilise the lawn.
Most of the high water use plants have shallow root systems and can be easily transplanted in winter into their respective groups.
Hardy, low water and drought tolerant species cannot normally be moved because of their very deep root systems.
Plant during the spring or autumn when the watering requirements are lower.
Watering your garden in the cool of the early morning, or in the evening reduces water loss through evaporation.
I hope this helps you with your water saving and the way you use water.