20 Ways to Save Water

...and energy... and money

Due to climate change, and a growing population, we are using more water than the environment can cope with.  Not only this, but the treatment and transport of water to our taps is using energy, which contributes to climate change.

We all know we need to use less water - not just for environmental reasons, but to save a few pennies in this tough economic climate - but how?  Here are a few ideas I've come across...

1. Check for leaks in the house - just imagine how much water you are wasting if a drop of water comes out of a leak every five seconds (I once had a leak under the sink which filled a pint glass every few hours).

2. Put a bottle full of sand/water into the cistern to reduce the amount of water used with each flush

3. Buy a water butt to collect rain water from the roof, and use it to water the plants / wash outside areas / wash the car

4. Shower instead of having a bath

5. Talking of showers, make them short.  Wet yourself, then turn the shower off; lather up, then rinse it off. 

6. Don't leave the tap running when brushing your teeth / washing your face

7. Always make sure the washing machine has a full load before turning it on

8. Leave a bottle of chilled water in the fridge so you don't have to run the tap cold (especially with this hot weather!)

9. When washing dishes, don't let the water run - only use it for rinsing

10. Don't flush rubbish (such as face wipes) down the toilet

11.  Fill the kettle for only as much as you need (try filling the cup first and pouring it into the kettle)

12. Use buckets and a sponge to wash your car, not a hose

13.  Choose water efficient washing machines and dish washers

14. Water your plants when it's cooler (eg the evening) so water is not lost through evaporation.  Also choose drier plants that do not need as much water, and do not over-water them.

15. Start mowing the lawn so it is an inch or two higher: this helps retain water

16.  Collect the water used for rinsing vegetables, and use it to water house plants

17. Cut down on your washing up by using one glass throughout the day, or refilling a water bottle.  Also refill mugs for tea and coffee etc.

18.  Turn off taps tightly after use - and teach your kids to do the same

19.  Find out where the master water shut off valve for your house is located - in the case of a burst pipe, or serious leak, this could save a huge amount of water and money (I know this from experience - let's just say i didn't know where the valve was, and one flooded kitchen later, now I do...)

20.  Finally, so you have any idea of how much water you are using (and can start to save money) have a meter installed, and only pay for the amount you use (rather than a set amount).  Contact your water supplier for information on how to do this.

If you have any more ideas, do let me know!