22 September 2020
Southern Downs Regional Council is calling on residents to remain on top of their water wise efforts this summer and consider long-term water saving solutions.
The current drought has certainly shaped the way we think about water, and we should all be congratulated on how we have made significant changes to how we use and conserve water.
Portfolio Councillor for Water Stephen Tancred urged residents to take advantage of long-term water saving devices around the home to help manage water responsibly.
“Our region continues to battle drought, and as the mercury rises, now is the time to make sure we are doing everything possible to conserve water around the house and consider where improvements can be made,” Councillor Tancred said.
“Bathrooms, kitchens and laundries are the high use areas for households, so it is common sense to focus on how we can save water in these areas.
“In the bathroom, using a water efficient shower head can reduce water consumption by 50 percent, and water captured in a bucket and saved from going down the drain can be re-used for other purposes such as flushing the toilet or watering the garden.
“Check your toilet for slow leaks. A visibly leaking toilet can waste more than 160 litres a day. Replacing single flush toilets with a dual flush system could save up to 80 litres per day.
“When it comes to the laundry, always ensure you have a full load of washing before turning on your machine. If you have a small load, always double check you’ve adjusted your water level. Consider running a hose from the washing machine to the garden.
“Also take advantage of the eco option on appliances. Eco cycles not only save water, but also energy and money. If you are purchasing new appliances or upgrading appliances, do your research and check the water rating. The more stars the greater the water saving.”
Extreme Level water restrictions of 120 litres per person per day currently apply to all treated town water supplies delivered to the household tap or supplied by a water carter. Water restrictions also extend to communities supplied drinking water by bores in Dalveen, Pratten and Leyburn.
As the weather warms up, it is important to understand what Extreme Level water restrictions mean for you. For more information on water use, water saving tips and dam levels visit sdrc.qld.gov.au.
Check out Council’s Waterwise in the Home fact sheet www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/living-here/water---wastewater/water-saving-guides.