The long drought combined with more stringent water restrictions could result in cracking in houses, homeowners were warned this week. The danger, it seems, comes when the surrounding soils dry out, putting strain on the house structure and resulting in cracks, particularly in brickwork.
So we have decided to look at the top ten ways you can use less water around the house or recycle what you do use back into the garden, thus keeping the moisture levels up and reducing the impact.
According to Sydney Water, approximately 61 per cent of the total wastewater produced by an average household can be used as grey water. Kitchen wastewater is not usually included in this amount, as it can include fats and solids.
If you are unsure about what exactly is considered `grey' water and whether it is safe, the ACT Government has issued a leaflet (http://www.enviro-friendly.com/greywater-canberra.pdf) which should cover most questions.
Ten ways to save water around the house are:
- Thaw frozen food over a few hours or in a microwave rather than under running water
- Get everyone in your house to spend less time in the shower
- Wash your car on the lawn, using a bucket of water - you don't need a constant stream of water from a hose, and in moderation, car-washing detergents can help fertilise the lawn
- If you have young children who need a bath each day, take advantage of the warm summer weather to let them get cleaned up in a paddling pool instead - then tip the water onto the garden.
- Make sure washers on all taps are fitted tightly to stop wasteful dripping and install water-savers. Water-savers found at most hardware stores can be attached easily to taps to give a stronger, straighter water flow, save on water volume and reduce splashing.
- Keep a bucket or two with you in the shower and use the caught run-off to water the garden (or even wash the car, the dog, the windows, etc.)
- When you do a load of washing, either hook up an extended hose to drain run-off out to the garden or have it empty into buckets then use the water where necessary. It is widely suggested that only phosphate-free detergents be used, to reduce the potential harm to plants and soil.
- If you have a dishwasher, from time to time try washing the dishes straight away after a meal - the less you use the dishwasher the more water you'll save, and you'll find the sooner you act the easier the food will come off. When you do use your dishwasher, make sure it's a full load before you start
- Install and implement the use of a rainwater tank
- Have a `grey water' tank installed or invest in a diverter valve for grey water.
