Conserve Water
As our country grows there is also a growing demand on our water supply. In order for us all to enjoy our precious reserves we need to be more aware of water conservation.
It's surprising to know that the average daily water consumption per person in Ireland is over 148 litres! We can reduce the amount we use quite simply, by following these straightforward tips. Water is precious. Let's conserve it.
In the House
1. Keep a jug of water in the fridge.
Instead of letting the tap run for cold water, fill a jug of water and keep it in the fridge.
2. Use a basin to rinse/clean your fruit and vegetables.
Instead of letting the tap run, use a basin to rinse/clean your fruit and vegetables. Why not use the leftover water to give your pot plants a drink?
3. Use a bucket of water not a hose.
A running hose will use about 9 litres of water per minute. The car will be just as clean using a bucket of water. When cleaning your windows or washing your car, use a bucket and sponge instead of a hose. The same goes for your garden flowers, try using a watering can instead.
4. Lawns don't need to be hosed.
Use good mulch on your flowerbeds to reduce watering.
5. Fix leaking taps as soon as you hear them.
Remember to check that your home is leak free and fix those dripping taps. Phone and report water leakage from burst pipes to your local authority.
6. Use your Washing Machine and Dishwasher only when they are full.
A typical Washing Machine on full cycle uses up to 45 litres of water. A dishwasher uses 20 litres. Try to use only your appliances when you have a full load. You'll save money and conserve water.
This could save thousands of litres of water and damage to your home in the event of a pipe burst.
7. Don't leave the tap running while brushing your teeth.
A running tap will dispense up to 6 litres of water a minute. Don't leave it running while shaving or washing your hands.
8. In the Shower.
Reduce the time you spend in the shower. A power shower will use over 125 litres in less than five minutes (a bath takes 80 litres of water).
9. Know how to turn off your water supply.
10. Hot Drinks.
Fill the kettle with enough for your needs, not to the brim. It saves energy too.
In the Garden
1. Grass.
Grass can survive for long periods without water and will quickly recover when the next rain showers arrive. Raising the lawnmower blades to a higher level will help stop the grass from scorching in warm weather. Leaving the clippings on the lawn will protect the roots and returns nutrients to the soil.
2. Watering Cans.
If you have to water do so in the early morning or evening when it is cooler.Forget the hose and always use a watering can. Make sure the rose is fitted to your watering can.
3. Compost.
Recycle your green kitchen waste in a compost bin. Compost provides valuable nutrients and keeps the soil moist.
4. Don't Hose that Path.
Paths, patios and driveways must never be hosed. Use a yard brush, a rake or an outdoor blower for cleaning.
5. Mulches.
Using mulch such as wood chips, bark or gravel will help prevent water evaporation and will suppress weed growth saving water and time weeding. These are especially valuable for shrubs, flowerbeds and new plantings.
6. Collect Rainwater.
Rainwater is excellent for your garden. Collect it in a water butt fed from your gutters but always make sure to securely cover large containers for safety. Talk to your local garden centre they will be able to advise you about modern safe water collection systems. Never use a sprinkler system in your garden.
7. Weed those Beds.
Regularly weed and hoe your garden, to ensure that watering helps your plants and not your weeds.
8. Spot those Leaks.
Regularly check your outdoor taps, pipes and plumbing fixtures for leaks.
9. Reuse Water.
Use a basin in your sink to collect and reuse water for your garden plants.
10. Trees, Shrubs and Plants.
Plant flowers and shrubs that like warm and dry conditions. Your local garden centre can give you advice. Established trees and shrubs do not need to be watered.