Marrickville Council encourages all residents to do whatever they can to conserve water. There are many everyday things we can do to save water in the home, as well as in our places of work.
A leaking toilet or tap can waste over 2000 litre of water per month. Replace washers in leaking taps as soon as you notice the problem and remind your family to ensure taps are turned off completely after using.
Mandatory registration and labelling now apply to all showers, washing machines, dishwashers, toilets, urinals and taps intended for domestic use. This means you can be confident of making a water efficient choice. Washing machines and dishwashers with a high water efficiency rating use about half the amount of water as conventional models, while still giving you the same quality clean.
Installing water efficient taps, flow regulators or tap aerators is an inexpensive way to cut your water usage. Many people were unhappy with early models of water efficient showerheads as they performed poorly, however new models have to meet minimum quality performance levels specified by Standards Australia. You will get a comfortable shower while using up to 50% less water. A water efficient shower head also saves you money on your energy bill, as you'll use less hot water.
Dual flush toilets can save up to 50% of water used and are now required in many new residential buildings; however they may not be an option for tenants. Council recommends installing a simple and inexpensive cistern weight available from The Watershed. Email the Watershed Sustainability Resource Centre or phone 9519 6366.
Rainwater harvesting can provide a source of water for watering gardens, flushing toilets and cleaning the car. Greywater reuse is another option; however residents need to be aware of the environmental and health risks of this practice and must contact Council to discuss their options before installing any greywater system. Email Council’s Sustainable Water Environments Coordinator or phone 9335 2104 to discuss these options.
Sydney Water offers a rainwater tank rebate scheme for residents and schools which can significantly offset the costs of purchase and installation. They also offer rebates on water efficient washing machines.
Sydney Water is currently offering an inexpensive ‘retro fit’ for your home. The WaterFix program includes a plumber's visit to identify all leaks as well as a brand new showerhead. The package has a value of $135 but residents pay just $22.
Sydney Water have developed the Every Drop Counts business leadership program to assist the manufacturing, commercial, hospitality, education, health and government industries to implement sustainable water management.
For more information on saving water contact Council's Water and Catchments Coordinator or phone 9335 2104.