Have you noticed a increase in your water usage?

If your water use has increased, it could be due to a leak or you may have used more water without realising it.  Read below for how to check for a leak and tips to help save water.  

First up, let’s verify if you have a leak

Check for leaks

  1. Find your water meter

    If you live in a house, your meter is outside and usually near the front gate or fence. For units and apartments, your meter is connected to the main water meter and it may be near your front door or in a service cupboard. If you're not sure where your meter is, contact your building management or your owner's corporation.

    Once you’ve found your meter, make a note of the numbers.

  2. Stop using any water

    Turn off all taps and appliances except the stop tap next to the water meter and the toilet.

  3. Wait for 2 hours

    Just make sure no one uses any water during that time.

  4. Check your meter again 

    If the numbers on your water meter have changed or the wheel has moved, you may have a leak. Repeat the test again, just to make sure.

If you think you have a leak, here are some tips on the most common leaks, how you can find them, or what to do next.

I think I have a leak

If you don’t have a leak, you’ve likely used more water without realising it. 

 Reasons for an increase  

There may be a very valid reason why your usage has jumped and some of these may include: 

  • House guests 
  • The arrival of a new family member including fur babies
  • Installation of a pool or spa 
  • Increased use of an evaporative cooler
  • Watering in a new lawn or garden. 

It’s good to understand why your usage has increased so you know what to expect on your bill as well as understanding how you’re using water around the house.  

Tips to save water

In the bathroom

  • Only fill the bath with as much water as you really need
  • Make sure your plug is working and not leaking water down the drain
  • Fill the bath with water that’s the right temperature so you don’t have to add more
  • When finished with the bath, use the water to water your plants
  • Shave a minute off your shower
  • Install a water efficient showerhead
  • Use the half flush on your toilet (when you can!)
  • Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth
  • Turn off the tap when washing your hands 

In the kitchen

  • Run your dishwasher only when it’s full
  • Scrape food scraps in the bin, don’t use running water
  • Wash fruit and vegetables in a small container
  • Place a bucket under the tap when waiting for the water to warm up and then use the cold water on your garden
  • When purchasing a dishwasher, look for a higher water saving rating

In the laundry

  • Do full load washing cycles
  • Select the correct cycle based on what you’re washing
  • Choose a front load washing machine over a top-loader – they use less water
  • Purchase a new washing machine with more stars. The higher the star rating the less water and energy is used 
  • Check hoses regularly for leaks 
  • Connect to grey or rain water
  • Wear your clothes more than once

Outdoors

  • Water in the morning
  • Use a hand-held hose with a trigger nozzle attached 
  • Consider planting drought tolerant Australian natives
  • Use mulch on your garden beds
  • Use a pool cover to reduce evaporation
  • Wash your car with a bucket