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When counting down to a holiday or time away from home, it’s encouraged to add a few simple water saving checks to your to do list. Doing so, will give you peace of mind and avoid you returning from holidays to discover water wastage or an unexpected spike in your water bill.
Whether heading away for a weekend, a few weeks or a few months, read below to learn 5 water saving checks before going on holidays including:
- Check your reticulation system controller is programmed correctly
- Check your reticulation system is operating correctly
- Turn off reticulation if rain is forecast
- Ensure all taps are turned off and not dripping
- Check appliances for water leaks
Check your reticulation system controller is programmed correctly
A quick check of your reticulation system controller will ensure it is set correctly. It should be programmed to water for a set amount of time and only once on your allocated rostered watering days for your house number. Even if using a bore, only water on your allowed days.
Check your reticulation system is operating correctly
Turn on your reticulation to ensure it is operating as it should. A few signs your reticulation needs repairing are loud or unfamiliar noises when your reticulation is switched on, water pooling in one or several areas of your garden or insufficient water pressure. A break in a reticulation pipe beneath the ground can often go unnoticed resulting in substantial amounts of water wasted.
Turn off reticulation if rain is forecast
If going on holidays during winter, the winter sprinkler switch off will be in place. If going on holidays during another season, if rain is forecast then consider turning off your reticulation before you leave.
Ensure all taps are turned off and not dripping
A check of all taps both inside and outside the home, will ensure water isn’t being wasted while on holiday. Check they are turned off properly and any dripping taps have washers replaced. A dripping tap wastes more water than you may think, which will quickly add up over time.
Check appliances for water leaks
Many appliances inside and outside the home use water. Check washing machine and dishwasher hoses plus pool pumps and toilets to ensure they aren’t leaking. A small leak can result in thousands of litres of water wasted.
Ensure your reticulation system and reticulation controller is working correctly
WA Reticulation Supplies supply the highest quality products to all customers including retail, wholesale, DIY and trade. Our team are trained to help you find the right irrigation system, parts and supplies suitable to your needs.
We have 3 convenient locations in Western Australia at 4/277 South West Highway in Armadale or 3/12 Lloyd Street in Midland or 8/117 Dixon Road in Rockingham.
Postage also available Australia wide.
Reference: WA Water Corporation
Frequently Answered Questions
1. Should I Check My Reticulation Controller Before Going Away?
Yes. Check that your controller is programmed for the correct watering days and run times before you leave. This helps prevent unnecessary watering while you are away and reduces the risk of returning to a higher water bill.
2. What Reticulation Problems Should I Look For Before A Holiday?
Run the system briefly and watch for low pressure, unusual noises, pooling water or sprinklers that are not working properly. These signs may point to a leak, broken pipe or damaged part that should be fixed before you go.
3. Should I Turn Off My Reticulation If Rain Is Forecast?
Yes. If rain is expected while you are away, turning off the reticulation can help avoid wasted water. It is also worth checking seasonal rules such as winter sprinkler switch off periods.
4. Why Should I Check Taps Before Leaving Home?
A dripping tap can waste more water than many people expect. Check inside and outside taps before you leave and replace washers if needed so water is not wasted while the house is empty.
5. What Appliances Should I Check For Water Leaks?
Check washing machine hoses, dishwasher hoses, toilets, pool pumps and any other appliances connected to water. A small leak can waste a large amount of water if it runs unnoticed for several days or weeks.