How To Save Water In The Home.

Water saving measures in your home are good for the environment, climate change and will help save you money.

The summer of 2022 was one of the hottest and driest summers reported.  It was also a summer where many counties experienced drought conditions; forcing hosepipe bans and water restrictions on many homes and businesses across Ireland. 

This summer the trend continues and Irish Water is forecasting water shortages in Dublin and Midlands from 2025 due to rising demand. To manage future water supply, Irish Water and county councils plan to fix leakage from the water supply systems and trace water from river sources across the country to more populated areas. Meanwhile, there is much we can do in our homes to save water and help secure the future of the Irish water supply.

Why does saving water matter?

Water-saving measures in your home are good for the environment, and climate change and will help save you money.

• Saving water will help minimise the amount of water taken from rivers and other sources to meet demand.  
• Saving water is closely linked to energy consumption. Reducing the time you shower or a dishwashing cycle can help reduce your carbon footprint.
• Installing water-saving devices can help save you energy and money.

Home Leak Detection & Repair 

Irish Water estimates that a high proportion (about a third) of water is lost due to home plumbing issues. The constant sounds of water running from a toilet cistern or water storage tank constantly refilling are possible signs of internal plumbing issues in the home.

If you think you have a leak in your home, then you should contact a plumber as soon as possible.  Not only will repairing leaks save water, but can also improve water pressure.  

Save Water In The Garden 

Collecting rainwater directly from your gutters to a water butt is an inexpensive way to save water. The water collected can then be used for watering plants, washing your car or cleaning your windows.  

Be sure to limit the use of pressure washers and attach a trigger nozzle to your hosepipe. Remember to only water your garden in the late evening or early morning when evaporation rates are at the lowest.

Consider planting a drought-resistant garden and use mulch and bark in your garden beds to help reduce evaporation.  A good landscape gardener can help design and plant an environmentally friendly, low maintenance and drought-tolerant garden.

Save Water In The Kitchen and Bathroom

Installing water-efficient appliances and fittings may cost you more in the short term, but the more efficient the item, the more money you'll save in the long term.

If you are doing a bathroom or kitchen refurbishment, or simply replacing an old washing machine or dishwasher, choose products with energy-efficient settings and look for water usage controls such as quick wash and water consumption options.

Invest in water-efficient showerheads, taps, and toilets.  A dual flush toilet can save 7 litres compared to an old-style flush system and a toilet cistern bag or a cistern displacement device can save up to 5000 litres per year.

Installing aerator taps or showerheads will pump air into your water flow, reducing the amount of water you use, while still giving you the effect or a normal shower.

Chat with a qualified and rated plumber today to discuss what you can do to reduce water consumption in your home.

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