Essential water saving tips

This statement comes after several Springs residents complained that the metro is not taking complaints regarding water leaks seriously.

Metro spokesman Themba Gadebe says the metro has not lost the battle against water losses.

He says the community can save water by implementing the following tips:

• Check the valves and pipes for leaks.

A small drip can waste a lot of litres of water per day.

• Don’t use the toilet as an ashtray or waste basket.
• Don’t flush toilet unnecessarily.
• Check toilets for leaks by putting a little food colouring in the toilet tank.

If, without flushing, the colour begins to appear in the bowl within 30 minutes, there is a leak that should be repaired.

• Check for hidden leaks at the water meter by reading the house water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used.

If the meter doesn’t read exactly the same, there is a leak.

• Shorten shower times.
• Turn off the water tap after wetting the toothbrush.
• Use dishwasher and washing machine for full loads only.
• When washing dishes by hand, don’t leave the water running for rinsing.
• Keep a bottle of drinking water in the fridge.
• Cover the swimming pool to reduce water evaporation.
• Don’t overfill or excessively backwash the swimming pool.
• Collect rain water for use.

Saving water tips for gardens

• Position sprinklers for water to land on lawn or garden not on paved areas.
• Avoid watering on windy days.
• Water lawn only when needed.

Test lawn by standing on grass, if it springs back up it doesn’t need water.

• Water gardens less frequently, but water it well when temperatures are cooler.
• Use a broom and not a hose pipe to clean driveways and side walks.
• Group plants according to their water needs.

Connect with us:

Have a story? Send Anna Robertson an email on annar@caxton.co.za or contact her on 011 812 4820.

Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter as well as our journalists @SpringsJournOne and @SpringsJournTwo.

For news straight to your phone, invite us on BBM – 7EFABEF1 or join us on WhatsApp on 079 408 9334.