Global warming is having a major impact on many different areas around the world, and this, in turn, can affect our water conservation plans. There are a number of areas facing very dry seasons from the Southeast United States to many areas in Australia. The reasons for these are varied. Most of us think it’s because there is less water falling form the sky, but this is just one possible situation. Drought conditions can also be exacerbated by very hot weather that evaporates normal rainfall levels into the air, before it is conserved. Add to that increased usage of this precious resource and we have a calamity waiting to happen. If we don’t learn how to manage our water properly, it will end up costing us more and more, on an individual level as well as a collective social level. Learn to conserve water and reduce your expenses at the same time by doing the following.

In the Home

  • Reduce your shower time

By reducing the time you spend in the shower, you can effectively save money on your water bill while conserving water.

This is a very inexpensive option to help reduce your water demands without shortening the time in the shower.

  • Fix leaks

If you notice your water bill dramatically increasing, you may have a leak. In some areas where drought is becoming very threatening, water utility companies are requesting that you fix a leak within 24 hours or face having your water shut off. Be proactive and check your systems for leaks or increases in your water bill that you weren’t expecting.

  • Reduce toilet water demands

This can be done by either flushing less or putting a brick in the tank to reduce the water being disposed. If shopping for a new toilet or building a new house, check to see that the toilets conserve as much water as possible while still being sanitary.

  • Check efficiency of your appliances

Newer models of washing machines and dishwashers all can be more efficient. If you have a large family and need to use these appliances more than the average person, you can realize a cost savings over time if you choose more efficient, water-conserving, models.

  • Replace water-hungry appliances

Check to see if your appliances use water that isn’t necessary. Examples of these are some air conditioners and some water heaters. There are now water heaters that are tank-less that can help save water usage as they heat the water on demand.

In the Garden

  • Use drought-tolerant plants

Some plants require more moisture than others. If you are in an area experiencing drought, look to planting more drought-resistant varieties, whether it is grass seed or ornamentals.

  • Learn to mulch and compost

Since many areas are not being affected by the rainfall levels as much as the hotter temperatures, you can help to conserve moisture in the ground before it evaporates by mulching and composting your soil. The mulch will add a layer of protection to keep the water in the ground. Composting provides nutrients to your plants to keep them healthy as the heat stresses them.

  • Add soil additives

Look for additives that can help trap and retain moisture in your soil. There are a number of soil wetting agents on the market that can help to improve the chances of your landscape surviving.

  • Collect rainwater

If you have a large area to irrigate, consider collecting rainwater for your own use. One rain barrel can cost as little as $40 and save you the necessity of replacing your landscaping every year. Just check with your local governmental agencies for any regulations that might apply to standing water in your yard. You will need to keep it screened and closed off to avoid mosquito propagation and animals getting into it.

The Issue of Grey Water

As drought becomes more of an issue, you will start to hear more and more about grey water. Grey water is the technical term given to water that has already been used either in the bath, household appliances, and even the toilet. It is dirty water, but some of it can still be used to water your landscaping, if you follow some common sense guidelines.

  • Don’t use toilet water

This water is contaminated with fecal matter and is not safe to use for any purpose other than flushing your toilet. To use any contaminated grey water, you would have to treat it according to your local regulations. That is still an option for people who have the money it takes to implement this option, but it is not a cheap alternative for the home owner.

  • Shower water power

You can use the water you use to take a shower to water some of your ornamentals or to flush your toilet. Don’t use grey water for edibles as it can still contain high levels of detergents.

  • Check out diverters

If you don’t want to haul water, but have an application suitable for grey water use in your home then check out diverters. You can get one for a hundred dollars or so and it will divert water from your wash to specific areas for your use later. This can save a lot of money on your water bill.

Check Out Other Options

As we learn more about how to manage our water resources better, more and better information becomes available to the general public. If you get online, there are agencies devoted to helping you learn more and to saving this precious resource. Australia has a website called www.savewater.com.au that speaks to many different money and water saving ideas available to Australians. There you can learn about rebates and governmental incentives to help steer citizens towards becoming more water aware so they too can help in the conservation area. Even if you don’t live in Australia, check your local government agencies to see what incentives and programs they might have to help you conserve water. Many cities are now offering to replace old showerheads with new aerating heads for free as an inexpensive and cost-effective way to conserve water.

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