For this, the 2nd collection of the Super, Simple, we’re stepping up the effort factor a notch. Still simple, still practical, requires only a tad more thought and self-conditioning.

  1. Monitor your water bill for unusually high use. Your bill and water meter are tools that can help you discover leaks.
  2. Run your washing machine and dishwasher only when they are full. You can save up to 3 700 litres a month.
  3. Don’t use running water to thaw food. Defrost food in the refrigerator for water efficiency and food safety.
  4. If your shower fills a 5 litre bucket in less than 30 seconds, replace the shower head with a water-efficient model.
  5. Put food colouring in your toilet tank. If it seeps into the toilet bowl without flushing, you have a leak. Fixing it can save up to 3 700 litres a month.
  6. When cleaning out fish tanks, give the nutrient-rich water to your plants.
  7. Plant in the autumn when conditions are cooler and rainfall is more plentiful.
  8. Use a broom instead of a hosepipe to clean your driveway and sidewalk and save water every time.
  9. We’re more likely to notice leaks indoors, but don’t forget to check outdoor taps, sprinklers and hoses for leaks.
  10. Group plants with the same watering needs together to avoid over watering some while under-watering others.