But before we bring out the sprinkler and take the water-saving heads off our showers we need to pause, because regardless of current dam levels or the rainfall, water remains a precious resource that needs to be used responsibly. Businesses still have an imperative to cut down on water usage where possible, as Level 3 Water Restrictions are still in place for most of NSW and the ACT, and the cost of water is set to rise.
Whilst most of us think of water coming out of the tap as being virtually free, it’s not. Whilst each litre might not cost a lot, businesses can potentially use large quantities if they’re not careful which can end up costing a lot. It’s about to get more expensive too, as Sydney Water is increasing water prices by as much as 29% for commercial users between 2008 and 2012.
So, it might just be worth your while to evaluate how much water your business is actually using and where it can be saved.
After all, saving water is also saving expenses. |
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Do you have leaky pipes?
A dripping tap can waste more than 2,000 litres per month. A toilet cistern that is visibly leaking can waste 29 buckets per day. Leaking pipes with greater amounts of water pressure can waste even more.
Property owners are responsible for maintaining the pipes running between the Sydney Water/utility provider main and the taps and buildings. To check for leaks, Sydney Water recommends that you:
- Look for damp patches on the ground outside
- Look for damp patches on walls where pipes run behind
- Ensure taps, hot water systems and appliances aren’t dripping
- Test the toilet cistern by putting food colouring into the cistern (leave it for an hour – don’t flush – and when you return if there is coloured water in the bowl, the cistern is leaking)
- Make sure tree roots aren’t interfering with pipes
- Inspect pipes and joints for rust or damage.
The ultimate indicator of a leak is if water is being “used” when it’s not supposed to be. To test this, take note of the water meter at the end of the day. Make sure that water isn’t going to be used overnight, then take note of the water meter in the morning. If there has been any movement of the numbers, then you may have leaky pipes. To get leaky pipes fixed, contact a licensed plumber.
Are you collecting rainwater?
Water falling from the sky really is free! Rainwater tanks are great ways of capturing water for your reuse. Many local councils offer subsidies for businesses willing to invest in a rainwater tank. At the moment, Sydney Water is offering up to $1500 as a rebate for businesses installing rainwater tanks (subject to terms and conditions). Check with your water utility to see if rainwater tank rebates are currently being offered. By using water collected from rainwater tanks, your overall water bill will fall.
Rainwater tanks may be of particular interest to dealerships for the purpose of washing vehicles. Water restrictions do not apply to water that has been captured onsite by such things as rainwater tanks, therefore allowing dealerships to wash vehicles as required.
Are you using water saving devices?
There are many appliances and devices available that can cut down on your water usage. Some options are:
- » Dual flush toilets
- » Tap flow regulators
- » Urinals that are waterless or use less water
- » Trigger nozzles
- » Water-saving shower heads.
There are a lot of products on the market, so the best way to ensure that the water saving product you are purchasing actually does save water is to go to the Australian Government’s “Water Efficiency and Labelling Standards” (WELS) scheme website and compare the product’s water-saving performance claims.
Not convinced? Then think about this – according to Sydney Water:
- A water efficient dual flush toilet can save 51 litres per person per day
- Tap flow regulators can cut down on water flow (without effecting pressure) by 2/3
- Choosing more efficient urinals could reduce water usage by 40 to 50%
- Water from trigger nozzles is only used when required and cannot be left running
- Efficient shower heads use approximately 40% less water than normal shower heads.
Are your habits using a lot of water?
So is your business using a lot more water than it needs, causing your water bill to be a lot higher than it could be? To keep your expenditure down, try and make some small investments to save your water consumption in the long term. It’s good for Australia’s water supplies and good for your business.
The MTA is running the Green Stamp Plus program in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory as a joint initiative with the Australian Government Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts. For more information please visit www.greenstamp.mtansw.com.au or call MTA on 02 9213 4222.
