Water rates set to hike – here’s how to save money

With water and sewer rates set to rise twice this year – for a total of almost 14 per cent – a local contractor says there are a few things people can do to negate the rising costs of water in Winnipeg.

John Brisson, an independent contractor with more than 30 years experience, said that Winnipeggers are beginning to opt for more water-efficient devices in their homes.

Inside

“The toilet is the biggest water-waster in your home, especially if it’s an older toilet,” said Brisson. “Some toilets can flush almost 20 litres of water per flush.”

A few things homeowners can do:

• Fill a plastic pop bottle or two with enough sand or pebbles to weigh them down, top them up with water, screw the lids on and place them in your tank. Ensure there’s still about 10 litres of water left in the tank to flush properly. This can save more than 40 litres of water a day.

• Install a low-flush toilet or purchase a toilet dam, available at any hardware store.

• Check your tank for leaks by placing some food colouring in the tank. If after a few minutes colour shows up in the bowl, you have a leak that needs to be fixed right away.

Brisson said other big water-wasters include long showers, dishwashers and washing machines. “People can install low-flow taps and shower heads, and only do up their dishes and laundry when you have full loads.”

• To save water when showering, turn the water off when soaping up and turn it back on to rinse.

• Don’t leave the tap running when you’re washing vegetables, brushing your teeth or shaving. Fill the sink, turn off the tap or use a pan or bowl to wash veggies.

• Insulate your water pipes. Having hot water faster means less water waste.

Outside

Janice Sawell, owner of Sawell Landscaping said while frosty ’Peggers might not be thinking about spring and summer right now, people making plans for landscaping can incorporate water-saving plants and techniques into their designs.

“Native bushes and plants tend to be more drought resistant than others,” she said. “Look for bushes and plants that are native to southern Manitoba so they’re hardier.”

Other things homeowners can do:

• Water during the cool parts of the day, and water well. “Light sprinklings tend to just evaporate, meaning you’re watering more often,” said Sawell. “My favourite trick is to put an empty tuna can on your lawn when you’re watering – when it’s full, you’re done, and you shouldn’t have to do that more than once or twice a week.”

• Wash your car the old-fashioned way and use a bucket and warm soapy water. Only use the hose to rinse. Sawell said once you’re done, throw the water on your plants. “Plain soap won’t hurt them.”

• Rain barrels are great ways to collect water for watering, and can be decorative. “Put a screen on your rain barrel, though, to prevent mosquitoes,” said Sawell.

• Use a broom to clean your walkways and driveway. “It works just as well,” said Sawell. “Why spend the money on water?”

• Putting mulch around flowers, trees and shrubs will keep more moisture in.

• Let the grass grow. “Keeping a slightly longer lawn promotes water retention.”