Using water-efficient fixtures on taps and showers is a simple yet impactful way to contribute to water conservation. These fixtures help minimize water wastage, lower utility bills, and promote sustainability, all while maintaining the comfort and functionality of daily routines. Here are some ideas to use in your home:

• Upgrade your taps to Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) compliant fixtures.
• Choose aerated faucets that maintain water pressure while reducing overall water consumption
• Install low-flow showerheads to enjoy a satisfying shower experience while conserving water.
• Consider the switch to water-saving showerheads with adjustable settings for a customized flow.
• Invest in dual-flush toilets to maximize water efficiency based on the type of waste, reducing unnecessary water use
• Explore touch or sensor-activated taps to minimize water wastage by ensuring water flows only when needed.

Household appliances like washing machines and dishwashers can use a lot of water. If you are buying a new one, consider these points below to make sure you are investing in a water efficient model:

• Opt for a dishwasher with a high Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) rating, indicating lower water consumption per wash cycle.
• Choose a dishwasher with adjustable settings to match the load size, ensuring water is used efficiently even for smaller loads.
• Invest in a front-loading washing machine, known for their water efficiency compared to top-loading models
• Select appliances with eco-friendly or water-saving wash modes, reducing water usage during each cycle without compromising cleanliness.
• Utilize washing machines that offer cold water wash options, saving energy and reducing water consumption.
• Explore appliances with smart sensors that adjust water levels based on the size of the laundry load, minimizing excess water usage
• Maintain appliances regularly to ensure optimal efficiency, fixing any leaks or issues promptly to prevent water wastage

Adopting water-saving habits not only preserves this precious resource but also contributes to lower utility bills and a more sustainable environment. By incorporating simple practices you can make a meaningful impact on water conservation while enjoying economic benefits. Here are some tips for water-wise habits you can adopt in your home:

• Take shorter showers
• Turn the taps off while brushing your teeth
• If washing up, only use enough water for the dishes you have
• Scrape dishes before putting them in the dishwasher (instead of rinsing)
• Only wash full loads (especially if your washing machine is an older model)
• Be vigilant about fixing leaks
• Change watering times to morning or early evening, to minimise the amount of water that is evaporated
• Keep an eye on your water meter and stay aware of your usage, especially during the dry season
• Use air blowers to sweep the driveway, instead of a hose
• Keep your pool or spa covered in the dry season to minimise the amount of water that is evaporated

Water leaks in the home, whether from faucets, pipes, or appliances, demand swift attention due to their potential to escalate into significant issues. Beyond the obvious waste of a precious resource, rapid leak repair is crucial to prevent structural damage, mold growth, and skyrocketing water bills. Timely fixes not only conserve water but also safeguard the integrity of the home, promoting a sustainable and economically responsible living environment.

Water leaks can happen in various areas of the home. Here are some common places where they may occur: 

1. Faucets: Leaks can develop around the base or from the spout of faucets in kitchens, bathrooms, and utility sinks.
2. Toilets: Leaks may occur at the base, around the tank, or through internal components like the flapper valve.
3. Pipes: Cracks, corrosion, or joint issues in plumbing pipes, whether visible or hidden behind walls, can lead to leaks.
4. Washing Machines: Leaks might occur in the hoses, connections, or internal components of washing machines.
5. Dishwashers: Connections and hoses in dishwashers can deteriorate, leading to leaks during operation.
6. Refrigerators with Ice Makers: Water supply lines to refrigerators or issues with the ice maker can cause leaks.
7. Air Conditioning Units: Condensation or issues with the drainage system of air conditioning units may cause leaks.
8. Solar Hot Water Units: Water can be leaking from the water tank and dripping down from the roof

How to detect a water leak

Detecting a water leak early is crucial to prevent potential damage and conserve water. Here are signs that may indicate you have a water leak in your home:

• Unexplained Increase in Water Bills: A sudden and unexplained spike in your water bills could indicate a hidden leak. 
• Visible Water Damage: Water stains on walls, ceilings, or floors may suggest a leak in the plumbing or roofing
• Mold Growth: The presence of mold, especially in areas not typically exposed to moisture, may indicate hidden water leaks.
• Sounds of Running Water:  If you hear the sound of running water when no faucets or appliances are in use, there might be a leak.
• Pooling Water: Puddles or pooling water in areas where it shouldn't be, such as the basement or under sinks, can signal a leak.
• Decreased Water Pressure: A sudden drop in water pressure may be due to a leak in the plumbing system
• Wet or Warped Flooring: Warped, stained, or buckling flooring in areas like the bathroom or kitchen may indicate water damage.
• Cracks in the Foundation: Cracks in the foundation, especially if accompanied by dampness, could be a sign of water infiltration.
• Green spots: If there are patches of garden than are greener than the rest, it may be a leak in the irrigation system

If you notice any of these signs, it's important to investigate further or consult with a professional plumber to identify and address the source of the water leak promptly. Early detection and repair can prevent extensive damage and conserve water resources.

What to do if you suspect a leak

Check out the Power Water website for information on leaks and how to fix them

Conserving water in the garden is not only environmentally responsible but also a savvy way to maintain a lush, thriving outdoor space. Implementing water-wise practices. Here are some tips on saving water in the garden:

1. Understand how much water your garden needs: The Living Water Smart website states that most plants need 30mm of water each week during the dry season. And native plants often need less (more like 30mm every 2 weeks)
2. Darwin Weather Web: This is a network of over 30 weather stations around Darwin that provides weather information from suburb to suburb. Use this to help make decisions about watering in the garden.
3. Upgrade to a smart irrigation system. See the Living Water Smart website for details on how to do this and how to program your irrigation controller.
4. Use mulch to reduce evaporation, suppress weeds and maintain soil moisture.
5. Opt for top end territory native plants which are adapted to local conditions and generally require less water. 
6. Zone your garden to optimise watering. For instance, place the more water intensive plants together.
7. Water the garden at the beginning or end of the day. This will minimise water loss through evaporation.
8. Make sure you seasonally adjust your automatic irrigation controller to counter large transevaporation rate.
9. Fertlize your garden towards the end of the wet season

By incorporating these strategies, gardeners can strike a balance between maintaining a beautiful landscape and being mindful of our precious water resources.

The Living Water Smart website has a lot of resources for saving water in your garden. This is an interactive site anyone in the NT can use. You simply select who from their list. The list includes: 

• home owner 
• business owner
• School community
• Plumber/irrigator
• Property manager
• Renting a property
• Working for government or council

And what type of information you are looking for: 

• Gain advice about irrigation
• Save money on water bills
• Find out about rebates and services
• Check if I have a leak
• Understand how much water my garden needs
• See how Councils and Governments are helping
• Understand why we should save water
• Access a list of registered tradies