#WaterWeek: Five simple ways to save water at home
The water crisis in KZN and the whole country needs us to be more aware of how we use and spare water. Here are five simple ways to use less water at home.
1. Turn off the tap when you brush your teeth
We've all been moaned at by our parents, and now we moan at our kids to close the tap when they brush their teeth. This could save up to a litre of water , reducing your water bill.
2. Always use full loads in your washing machine and dishwasher
This cuts out unnecessary washes in-between.
3. Have a shorter shower
A shower can use anything between 6 and 45 liters per minute. Set a timer so you spend less time in the shower or use a bucket to catch water while you wait for your preferred temperature. You can use this to flush your toilet, water your plants or wash your floor.
4. Use less water to flush your toilet
Flushing your toilet constantly can waste a lot of water. Older toilets use up to nine litres of water per flush, and with the average person going to the loo at least five times a day, it definitely adds to your bill quickly. Here's a quick tutorial on how you can use less water to flush your toilet:
5. Water your garden with a watering can
We know it's a little manual labour, but use a watering can instead of a hosepipe as it uses 1,000 litres of water an hour. Mulching your plants (with bark chippings, heavy compost or straw) and watering in the early morning and late afternoon will reduce evaporation and also save water.