LIFESTYLE NEWS - With winter approaching, the prospect of rain brings hope to Western Cape communities which are living under severe water-stressed conditions.
Until the time sufficient rain comes pelting down and dam levels improve, water restrictions will continue to be imposed across the province.
The City of Cape Town and surrounding areas now only have 12% of consumable water left. One of the main reservoirs that supply water to the region, Upper Steenbras, is filled to 55% of its capacity while the dam level of Theewaterskloof has dropped to an alarming 17%. As from 1 February 2017, the City of Cape Town has put level 3B water restrictions in place and could enact water shedding if the amount of water being used remains high.
You too can play a part in conserving water around your home. Here are some useful water saving tips, provided by Private Property, to help you lower your water bill.
Do not let the tap run while brushing teeth or trying to get cooler water to drink.
● Place a brick or any other cistern displacement device in the toilet cistern to lower the amount of water used for each flush.
● While taking a shower is more water efficient that bathing, you shouldn't leave the shower tap open for too long. The ideal shower length should be about two minutes long.
● When irrigating your garden, use a watering can instead of a hose and only in the late afternoon or evening. Mulch your plants with bark chippings or compost to prevent evaporation.
● Invest in water-efficient appliances such as modern dishwashers, washing machines, and water-efficient toilets and showerheads. Be sure to check that washing machines and dishwashers are filled to capacity before using them.
● Consider using greywater (water collected from bathroom sinks, showers, tubs and washing machines) to irrigate your garden or wash your car. Install a greywater system or collect grey water with a bucket or saucepan.
Clean drinking water is one our most valuable resources and whether or not you live in a drought-stricken area, saving water should be a top priority in order to ensure that fresh water is available whenever we open the tap.
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