6 October, 2017 12:00
Water efficient shower head

Queensland Urban Utilities is encouraging residents to be water wise after a record dry winter and a forecast hot summer ahead.

It comes after Seqwater launched the drought readiness phase of its Drought Response Plan, which was triggered when the combined level of the regions major drinking water dams fell to 70 per cent capacity.

Queensland Urban Utilities spokesperson, Michelle Cull, said this phase is about getting ready for the possibility of drought.

Mandatory water restrictions are at least another 12 months away, but now is a good time for us all to be more water wise around our homes and gardens, she said.

In summer, we tend to use more water outdoors, so that’s an area to watch if you’re trying to keep your consumption down.

There are also simple things you can do inside your home such as taking shorter showers and installing water efficient devices and appliances.

Water Wise Tips

Outside

Inside
  • Mulch your garden to help retain moisture.
  • Water in the early morning or late afternoon to reduce evaporation.
  • Choose native plants that can withstand dry conditions.
  • Use a pool cover to reduce evaporation.
  • Sweep driveways and paths, rather than using a hose to clean them.
  • Check for concealed leaks on your property. 
  • Take shorter showers.
  • Install water efficient devices and appliances, if you haven't already.
  • Do full loads in the washing machine and dishwasher.
  • Don't leave the tap running while brushing your teeth.
  • Fix leaking taps and toilets as soon as possible.
  • Part-fill the sink to rinse your dishes.

For more tips on how to be more water efficient, head to our website: https://www.urbanutilities.com.au/waterefficiency

About Queensland Urban Utilities
Established on July 1, 2010, Queensland Urban Utilities is one of the largest water distributor-retailers in Australia, providing water and sewerage services to more than 1.4 million residents across Brisbane, Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Scenic Rim and Somerset local authority areas. We are upgrading and improving the reliability of our infrastructure by investing $2.76 billion in a 10-year capital works program. Our service territory covers 14,384 square kilometres and we employ around 1,100 people.