Cape Townβs dam levels currently sit at around 75%, compared to roughly 90% this time last year. While there is no immediate crisis, a drier-than-normal winter with below-average rainfall has put pressure on Cape Townβs water supply heading into the summer season.
Residents are being urged to use water wisely. You can help conserve this precious resource easily by following a few simple guidelines in and around your home.
π Indoor Tips
- Turn off the tap: Stop the water running while you brush your teeth or shave.
- Rinse mindfully: Wash fruit and vegetables in a bowl of water instead of under a running tap.
- Catch the runoff: Place a bucket in the shower or basin to catch cold water while waiting for it to heat up. Use this to water plants or flush toilets.
- Run full loads: Only operate washing machines and dishwashers when they are completely full. Use the “eco” or “quick” cycle to optimize both water and energy consumption.
- Keep showers short: Limit your time in the shower and install a low-flow showerhead.
- Check for leaks: Fix dripping taps and leaking cisterns immediately. Do an overnight leak test by reading your water meter right before bed, ensuring no one uses water overnight, and checking the reading again first thing in the morning.
- Flush less often: Avoid unnecessary toilet flushing, and always use the half-flush option on dual-flush toilets.
π³ Outdoor Tips
- Reuse greywater: Re-route your washing machine outlet pipe to recycle water for your garden and lawn.
- Plant water-wise gardens: Choose indigenous, drought-resistant plants that thrive naturally in Cape Town’s climate.
- Water wisely: Water your garden in the early morning or late evening to minimize water loss from evaporation.
- Harvest rainwater: Install water tanks to collect rainwater for your garden or pool top-ups.
- Sweep instead of hosing: Use a broom instead of a hosepipe to clean pathways and driveways.
- Cover pools: Keep your swimming pool covered when it is not in use to prevent evaporation.
- Mulch your garden beds: Spread a thick layer of organic mulch (like bark chips, straw, or compost) over your garden soil. This traps moisture in the ground, keeps roots cool, and reduces the need for frequent watering.
Every drop counts. By making water-wise habits part of our daily routines, we can all play a role in protecting Cape Townβs shared water resources.
For more water-saving tips, permanent regulations, and details on how to report water-related issues, visit the City of Cape Townβs water-saving information page.
https://www.capetown.gov.za/Family%20and%20home/greener-living/water-wise-in-the-home/saving-water