Simple Ways to Conserve and Protect Your Water
- Tobias
- Jul 16
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Water is life, but that doesn’t mean it’s limitless. Approximately 71% of the Earth’s surface is covered with water, but only a tiny fraction of it is fresh, accessible, and safe to use. And when you rely on rainfed tank water, especially during a dry summer, that supply becomes even more precious.
As a water tank owner, you’ve already taken a big step toward self-sufficiency. Now, it’s time to make sure you’re getting the most out of every drop. At Cross Country Water Tank Cleaning, we work closely with tank owners every day to keep their systems clean, efficient and well-maintained for long-term success. Here are our top tips for saving water, protecting your tank, and doing your bit for the environment.
Why Water Conservation Matters
Despite how much water we see in oceans and rivers, only around 1.2% of the Earth’s water is available freshwater. The rest is locked in ice caps, buried deep underground, or simply too salty to use. And while rainfall can help replenish our tanks, droughts and long, dry summers can quickly bring levels down.
With that in mind, using water wisely, whether for drinking, bathing, gardening, or washing, isn’t just good practice. It’s essential. And it starts at home.
Tank Maintenance: Your First Line of Defence
Even the cleanest rainwater won’t stay potable for long if your tank is full of sediment, algae, or tree roots. Regular tank maintenance is key to ensuring safe water and preventing costly repairs.
Schedule regular cleaning – We recommend cleaning your tank every 2–3 years or more often if you notice sediment, smells, or discolouration.
Don’t waste your water – When we clean your tank, we don’t dump the contents. We sanitise and save what we can, so you’re not throwing away perfectly good water.
Inspect for damage – Keep an eye out for cracks, leaky fittings, or blocked gutters. These can compromise your water quality and your tank’s structure over time.
Check your pump – If your water pump’s running in the middle of the night with no taps on, you may have a leak.
13 Simple Ways to Save Water at Home
You don’t have to overhaul your entire lifestyle to make a difference. Small changes can add up to significant savings for your tank and your water bill.
Monitor Your Tank and Usage
Check your water levels regularly by peeking under the lid, installing a ball float, or using a digital water level meter. Free inspections are also available from some local providers.
Take Shorter Showers
Shaving a few minutes off your shower can save dozens of litres each day. Use a water-saving shower head and switch off the water while lathering up.
Turn Off the Tap
Brushing your teeth with the tap running uses about 5 litres. Flick it off until you need it.
Wash Full Loads
Whether it’s laundry or dishes, run your machines only when full. Choose eco or short wash settings, and skip extra rinse cycles to save up to 100 litres per load.
Fix Leaks
A dripping tap or leaking toilet can waste thousands of litres a year. If your water usage spikes unexpectedly, check your meter and address the plumbing issue.
Rethink the Garden Hose
Use a bucket to wash your car or water plants. If you must use a hose, go for short bursts rather than a constant flow. Use biodegradable soap when washing near the garden.
Collect Cold Water
Waiting for hot water? Catch the cold flow in a bucket and use it to water plants or clean floors.
Hang Towels in the Sun
Drying towels in sunlight keeps them fresh for reuse, meaning fewer laundry loads and more water saved.
Fill the Sink
When hand-washing dishes or produce, avoid running water. Fill the sink or a bowl instead. That way, you’ll use what you need, no more, no less.
Keep Drinking Water in the Fridge
There’s no need to run the tap to get it cold. A jug in the fridge is simple, effective, and saves litres every week.
Collect and Reuse rainwater
Install a secondary tank or use containers to catch water from a separate roofline. Use this non-potable water for gardens, flushing toilets, or washing.
Upgrade to Efficient Appliances
Look for WELS-rated products, such as taps, toilets, and washing machines. Even a 3-star appliance can reduce your water use significantly over time.
Clean Gutters and Accessories
Keep gutters, downpipes, and first-flush diverters clear of debris. A clean system means better water quality and maximum catchment when it rains.
Start the Year with a Water-Saving Mindset
The new year is a great time to reflect and reset. Why not include water-saving goals in your plans? Whether it’s booking a tank clean, checking your fittings, or simply turning off the tap while brushing, every small action helps.
At Cross Country Water Tank Cleaning, we’re here to make tank care simple. From inspections and cleans to water-saving advice, we’ve got your back, so your tank can keep doing its job all year long.
Ready to protect your water supply?
Contact Cross Country Water Tank Cleaning today to schedule your next tank cleaning or discuss ways to enhance your water system with our team. Together, we can help make every drop count.
