Each month I'll post a new theme and I hope you will join in as we strive for cheaper bills, more home cooked food and a well organised life
February's theme is being water wise. Australia is a very dry country and for many, many years we experienced a crippling drought. Severe water restrictions were put in place and we eventually got used to watching every drop of water we used.
A couple of years ago the water restrictions were lifted with only minor restrictions still in place. Yet how many of us still watch our water usage ? Do we still see water as a precious resource ? Water charges are on the increase each year and I must admit, I don't like opening my water bill. My family can't afford a rain water tank at this point so we need to find other ways to reduce the amount of water we use.
Here are some ways that my family saves water -
* Saving the shower warm up water in a wide mouthed bucket. If the weather is warm we use this water on the plants outside. If the weather is cool or wet, we pour the water into the washing machine.
* Saving the washing machine rinse water and pouring it back into the machine for the next load. I do this all year round and for every load. The final rinse water for the last load of the day is poured onto the garden around the house. It can't be used on the vegetable garden as it contains bacteria but it's safe for other plants and the grass.
* Putting a large ice cream container or bucket in one of the kitchen sinks to catch the water from hand washing, drink bottles and rinsing vegetables. This saved water is then used to rinse dishes before being put in the dishwasher. I also use the water for rinsing out the other sink. If there is any leftover water after these tasks are done, I pour it into a watering can outside to be used in the garden. If it's really clean water I water vegetable seedlings with it.
* Using a wind up timer for shorter showers. I've tried digital timers but eventually they rust or the battery dies. Replacement batteries cost more than the water you'd be saving. I've picked up wind up timers at the Reject Shop and other discount stores.
* Have a large jug or bottle of water in the fridge. In Summer tap water is warm so having a jug in the fridge will eliminate the need to run the water waiting for it to come out cool..
* Watering vegetable and garden plants with a watering can. Using a watering can is great for getting the water where it's needed -at the base of the plant. If your garden is large then maybe this option is not for you.
* Having a water saving shower head. This might sound basic but many homes still haven't changed over. Even if you have a water saving shower head, only turn on the taps until a reasonable stream of water comes through. Not every shower needs to be a power shower.
* If you have plants in pots, put them in the shade on hot days. You won't have to use as much water to keep them alive.
* Water your garden early in the morning or after tea during Summer. This gives the plants a chance to absorb the water before it evaporates.
* Put a bucket under a out pipe on your hot water system. Water drips out constantly so why not save it for a plant.
* Use the shower to shower, not brush your teeth or shave your face ( for the men ). Even with a water saving shower head, brushing your teeth uses about nine litres. Shaving and brushing your teeth at the sink uses less than one litre.
* Have the tap turned off when brushing your teeth. Maybe use a cup of water to rinse your mouth.
* Using the dishwasher when it's really full.
Please feel free to update us with your progress throughout the month. We'd all love to hear how others are saving water..
What water saving goals do you have for the month of February ?
How do you save water around the home ?
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| My watering can. |
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| Our new bathroom taps |
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| An ice cream container in the kitchen sink . |
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