Links

• Waterwise information - Queensland Government
• Rebates - Federal Government
• Greywater for gardeners - Sustainable Gardening Australia
• Grey water guidelines - Queensland Government

Rainwater tanks

• Tanks can come in all shapes and sizes, and can be placed above ground, on a stand, under a house or even incorporated into fences and walls.
• Tank size will depend on local rainfall patterns, roof catchment area and number of people you have in your house.
• They are usually made of metal, concrete, polythene or fibreglass.
• The cost of an average size tank can vary depending on size and design. Additional costs are involved in the pump and installation.
• All tanks need to be installed by a licensed plumber.

The Federal Government has householder rebates available for rainwater and greywater systems.

Greywater

• A greywater system in your home helps process and redirect water that would otherwise be wasted, to your garden, toilet and washing machine.
• A licensed plumber needs to install the equipment needed to divert water from washing machines, showers, and bathroom basins. More complex systems can even recycle water for re-use in your toilet or washing machine.
• Water from dishwashers and kitchen sink – known as blackwater – is not recommended for re-use due to higher levels of phosphates, organic matter, greases, oil and caustic detergents.
• If you don’t want to install a full greywater system – then in its simplest form, you can collect shower water or washing machine water in a bucket to pour over your garden! However avoid pouring greywater over vegetables that you plan on eating raw or slightly cooked.

 The Federal Government has householder rebates available for rainwater and greywater systems.

Pools

• A well-designed new pool can reduce energy consumption, chemical use, and water loss due to evaporation. Older pools can be retrofitted with devices to make them more efficient.
• Install an appropriate capacity pump for your pool.
• Reduce your pool pump running time during the cooler months of the year.
• Speak to your energy provider about switching to an off peak Tariff so that you can save money when running your pool pump.
• Use a pool cover to reduce your energy consumption, filtration time and top-up water.
• Purchase a timer for your pool pump – have an electrician install this for you.
• Inspect your pool filter regularly for clogging as this may increase the load on the pump.
• Shade structures over the pool can reduce leaf and dirt contamination, slow evaporate rates and give sun protection for swimmers.
• A water tank, even a small one, can be used to top up the pool, instead of using mains water.
• If building a new pool or replacing the filter, look for the most energy efficient model.
• If you are considering building a new pool, give some serious thought upfront as to what size pool is the most suitable for you/your family and how regularly you might use it.

For information on how Queensland water restrictions apply to pools.

Don’t forget that pool safety guidelines and laws apply in Queensland. Information is available here to help you.