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Last modified: 25 Jan 2022 8:00am

HoseWith the hotter, dryer weather we’re encouraging people to get smart with your water use to save money and ensure we can all keep enjoying a reliable water supply.

Getting smart on when and how we water our gardens through simple habits improves garden growth and means paying less on water rates, which have increased this year from .50c per cubic metre to .60c per cubic metre.

Tips for managing your water use:

  • Check hoses or taps for leaks
  • Make sure sprinklers are watering the plants not the driveway, footpath or buildings
  • Use a watering can or hose
  • Water for shorter periods, for example watering for three five-minute intervals over a couple of hours lets the soil absorb more water than watering for 15 minutes continuously which causes water run-off
  • A clock marked in segments of red (6am to 9am and 4pm to 9pm) Orange (9am to 4pm) and Green (9pm to 6am)Water your garden and lawn every few days rather than every day
  • Use the watering clock to time when you water to get the best results.
    At red on the clock (peak use times) you will likely have lower pressure.
    At orange on the clock (during the day) watering in the heat of the day or when it's windy results in a lot of water evaporating and watering is not recommended. Watering on a cooler, overcast day is a better option if you do water during the day as this provides the best opportunity for water to soak into your garden.  
    At green on the clock - this is the best time to water to maximise the benefits for your garden and save on your water use.