When the weather warms up, most of us are conscious of the energy we use running our air conditioners to keep ourselves cool. But how often do you think about the extra water you go through in the summer months?

Here’s 7 ways you can put a pretty serious dent in both your energy and water bills thanks to Urban Utilities…

Inside

• Always use the most efficient water and energy settings on your dishwasher, including the eco setting if your machine has one. And only wash full loads, of course!
• Cold showers are great in summer. Give them a go! It takes a lot of energy (and money) to continually replenish and reheat your household hot water, especially if you own a large system or have a big family.
• Dial back the laundry detergent. Most common laundry liquids are excessively sudsy. Using more than the recommended dose can cause your washing machine to drastically extend its rinse cycle.

• Use a bucket or a big bowl to catch running water while waiting for the hot water to come through. You can use it to rinse dishes, wash fruit and vegetables or give your plants a drink. You could also divert water from your air conditioning unit to water the garden!

Outside

• Sweep your driveway and footpath instead of hosing them. This can save up to 11 litres of water a minute. If you need to wash the area, fill a bucket and only use what you need.
• Do you have a suspiciously green patch of lawn? It’s likely a hidden leak you should investigate ASAP. Concealed leaks can be very costly – and with cost-of-living surging, the last thing you need is another big bill to pay. Learn how to check for these hidden nasties here.
• Protect your pool from water loss. Use a cover, add some shade and shelter it from the wind to reduce evaporation. And try keep water levels a few centimetres beneath the edge of the pool – lots of swimming and splashing can cause water to flow over if it’s too full.

Click here for more ways to save water, energy and money during the warmer months.