Reducing household water use lowers your water bill and eases demand on the mains supply, particularly during dry Gold Coast spells. The good news is that the most effective water-saving measures don't require major lifestyle changes — they're practical habits and fixture choices. Here are 10 realistic ways to save water at home.
1. Fix leaks promptly
A dripping tap or running toilet wastes water continuously — a single running toilet can waste hundreds of litres a day. Fixing leaks is the single most effective water-saving action, because it stops waste that runs around the clock. See our guides on signs of a leaking toilet and sudden water bill increases
2. Install water-efficient showerheads
Showers are one of the largest indoor water uses. A water-efficient showerhead with a high WELS rating can reduce water use per shower by 30–50% without noticeably affecting pressure. It also reduces hot water energy costs, as less water needs heating.
3. Replace old single-flush toilets
Older single-flush toilets can use up to 11 litres per flush. A modern dual-flush toilet with a 4-star WELS rating uses around 4.5 litres for a full flush and 3 litres for a half flush. For a family, the savings are significant. See our guide on whether to repair or replace your toilet
4. Use full loads in washing machines and dishwashers
Washing machines and dishwashers use a similar volume of water regardless of load size, so running them with full loads maximises the water used per cycle. If you're buying a new appliance, check the WELS rating — water-efficient models can save significant water over their life.
5. Turn off the tap while brushing teeth and shaving
Leaving the tap running while brushing or shaving can waste several litres per minute. It's a simple habit change that costs nothing and saves water every day.
6. Shorten your showers
A typical shower uses 8–10 litres per minute. Cutting a 10-minute shower to 5 minutes saves 40–50 litres per shower. A simple shower timer or a water-efficient showerhead makes this easier without sacrificing comfort.
7. Install a rainwater tank for the garden
A rainwater tank connected to your roof can supply garden irrigation, and with the right plumbing, toilet flushing and laundry. On the Gold Coast, where summer storms deliver plenty of rain, a tank can significantly reduce mains water use. See our guide on the benefits of installing a rainwater tank
8. Water the garden in the early morning or evening
Watering in the cool of the early morning or evening reduces evaporation, so more water reaches the roots. Avoid watering in the heat of the middle of the day, when much of the water is lost to evaporation before it does any good.
9. Use mulch in the garden
A layer of mulch on garden beds reduces evaporation from the soil, keeping moisture in the root zone for longer. It also suppresses weeds that compete with plants for water. Mulch is one of the cheapest and most effective garden water-saving measures.
10. Check for hidden leaks regularly
Hidden leaks — behind walls, under floors, or in the garden — can waste large volumes of water without any visible sign. Checking your water meter with everything turned off is a simple way to detect a hidden leak. See our guide on signs you may have a water leak
Start with the biggest wins
If you want to prioritise, start with fixing leaks and upgrading showerheads and toilets — these deliver the biggest savings for the least effort. If you'd like help with any of these, contact our Gold Coast team for advice and installation.
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