Global warming, climate change or extreme weather, call it what you want, the effects are being felt around the world. Cape Town is in the midst of a four-year-long drought, which has seen households limited to 50 Ɩ of water per person per day. To put that in perspective; it equates to a third of the per person consumption in the United Kingdom (UK).

With the news that the South-East of the UK is heading for a drought after two years of poor rainfall, we thought we would share a few tips on how to save water to ensure that our taps don’t run dry.

Only use the dishwasher and washing machine when they are full

These appliances are becoming more and more water-friendly; however, on average a dishwasher uses between 12 and 20 Ɩ of water per load. If you wash a full load of dishes in a dishwasher, you will save more water than washing by hand. The same goes for washing clothes.

Limit your time in the shower

A four-minute long shower uses 45 Ɩ of water. Limiting your time in the shower is one of the best ways to save water.

Hire a good plumber

A good plumber will be able to fix any leaking pipes or toilets, which can use up to 400 Ɩ per day if left unfixed. In the long run, it will save you money and saving water.

Make small cuts

Cutting back on water usage around the house by turning off the tap while you brush your teeth, using grey water to water gardens and only flushing the toilet when necessary will help reduce your water usage drastically.