South Africa is a water-scarce country and a steady supply of water is not a guarantee in any year. Therefore, citizens need to inculcate a culture of saving water and using this precious resource wisely.
1. Leaks should be attended to immediately. Report leakages to relevant authorities who are water service providers be it municipalities and water services responsible for providing water to the specific community.
2. Insulating exposed pipes with a warm insulator or cloth to
keep water flowing and prevent ice blockages from freezing temperatures.
When temperatures remain below the freezing point for a prolonged period, exposed
copper pipes similar to the ones for geysers are at risk of freezing.
3. When away from the house for an extended period of time
during winter, drain the water system by shutting off the main water valve and
turning on every water fixtures (both hot and cold lines) until water stops
running. When returning to the house, turn on the main valve and let each
fixture run until the pipes are full again.
4. Take a 5-minute shower. A shower that takes longer forms
steam in the bathroom which is a sign of negligence on water. In the process
water gets wasted and the interior of the walls and ceiling also gets damaged.
5. Simply replace an unnecessary full hot bath with a warm
cup of tea or coffee.
