Like most states in Australia, when spring and summer roll around, we all have to be a bit more conscious about how much water we’re using. Sydney’s water supply is dependant on rain and therefore in times where there may be a prolonged drought its important to be considerate. We all share the same water supply and when we work together to make sure it’s being used carefully, we can all enjoy our summers!

When we think of water restrictions, our minds usually go to watering the garden, as that is the most common thing most households need to be mindful of. However, there are a few rules around the water restrictions in Sydney which a lot of the time, we don’t consider. This could be because we feel that they don’t apply to us or aren’t something we do often, so we dismiss them as unimportant.

As communities, neighbourhoods, family members and friends, it’s important to look out for each other and make sure we’re not being wasteful. There are many rural areas in Australia where water is a scarce resource and we must remember that our use impacts others.

When summer comes around, there end up being a lot of people living in drought conditions. When we use our water efficiently, we make it more possible for them to be able to enjoy this precious resource.

So, with that said, we’ve decided to break down the main areas where we can save water in our households this summer!

Garden And Lawn Watering

We all know that watering our gardens during a hot Australian summer is imperative to the survival of our greenery. Sydney water restrictions allow us to water using the main drinking water supply before 10 am or after 4 pm using a bucket or watering can, or for 15 minutes a day using a drip irrigation system or smart water systems.

However, many people don’t know that your garden may not need to be watered every single day. If you care for your soil, it may actually retain more water. You can check your soil by sticking your finger into the ground to feel if it is still damp. If so, you can most likely wait until the next watering cycle to water it again.

NOTE: You may use greywater or rainwater from a tank at any time using a hose or sprinkler, as long as the tank is not topped up using the drinking water supply.

Our backyard pools get a workout during the summertime; its just the Aussie way! If you’re just topping up your pool or spa water that has been lost through evaporation or during the winter, you’re in the clear. You may use a hose with a trigger nozzle to top up your pool for 15 minutes per day. Do not leave the hose running unattended.

If you’re filling or refilling a new pool that exceeds 500 litres of water, you will need a permit and a pool cover. It is important to take advantage of your pool cover when you’re not using it. The specially designed covers trap the water in the pool by making sure the evaporated water doesn’t escape, alleviating the need to top it up. You also won’t be able to use water toys that connect to a hose or sprinkler such as a slip n slide or allow your children to play in the sprinklers.

When our trees start blooming in spring, a lot of us have pollen, leaves and flowers dropping and staining our driveways on top of the general dirt and dust we all get. However, it’s not vital to clean these large areas with water so we should revert to a good old fashioned broom.

If the hard surfaces of your garden are posing a health or safety risk due to built-up organic residue, then it is okay to use a high-pressure cleaning system or trigger nozzle hose to clean them. You can’t just leave the water on and unattended, but a quick sweep over is A.O.K.

Summer adventures make for pretty dirty cars and boats, and it is completely fine to clean them using a bucket and sponge or at a commercial car wash. You can also wash out your garbage bins with a trigger nozzle hose or bucket. If you desperately need to clean your windows, you may do so by using a bucket of water and a sponge or cloth. However, it’s not a good idea to try to wash down your home, fencing or anything that isn’t necessary.

Try to limit your water usage to vehicles only, in an effort to be conservative. It’s important to be a team player and be respectful of people living in drought-stricken areas across Australia. Remember these tips, and you’ll have a great spring and summer knowing that you’re responsibly consuming water.

For more information about Sydney’s water restrictions, visit the Sydney Water website.

If you think you have sprung a leak in your home and might be consuming extra water because of it, please get in contact with Chiswick Plumbing right away! We will happily come out to assess the issue and are available for emergency plumbing 24/7.