We often take water for granted. It’s there when we need it, simply by turning on the tap. We also pay the bill every quarter when it comes, often begrudgingly, as we only ever see the price go up. The average water bill in Adelaide is on the rise, and it doesn’t seem as if this trend is changing anytime soon.

What makes up the cost of water?

Your water bill is split into two separate costs. The first is the fixed cost that is simply the charge for having water supplied to your home. This amount gets charged whether you use the water or not.

The second is the tiered pricing based on your personal household water consumption. Each household is allotted a daily threshold. When you stay within that threshold, your water rates remain lower. As you use more water, the rates go up accordingly after the use of your daily threshold. The daily usage is averaged over the course of the quarter, so if you use a bit more water one day and a bit less the next, you can still be within the average daily threshold.

What is the average water cost in South Australia?

According to one 2020 survey, the average water bill in South Australia is $324 per quarter. As with other utility bills, the larger your household, the larger your bill. The bill is also impacted by seasonal water usage, leaks in your pipes, the water habits of your family, and your appliances.

How can I reduce my water bill?

There are several things that people can do to conserve water and reduce their bills. Some things will have a bigger impact than others, but they all add up toward savings in your water bill. Just like adding a solar system to your house can reduce your power bill, there are many things you can do to reduce your water bill.

• * Take shorter showers, and forgo baths when you can. Install a water-saving showerhead.

• * Keep a water bottle in the fridge so you don’t have to run the tap until it gets cold.

• * Fix leaky faucets and pipes. Leaks can waste up to 189 L per day.

• * Shut off the hose while washing your car. The constant stream of water wastes more water than you actually use on the car itself.

• * Use a broom to clean your driveway, steps, and sidewalks.

• * Check your sprinklers. Be sure they are watering your lawn, not the driveway or the street.

• * Put a layer of mulch around your plants and bushes to lock in the moisture.

• * Run your dishwasher and washing machines only when you have a full load of laundry.

• * Turn off the water while brushing your teeth and shaving.

• * Put some water in a bowl to wash your vegetables. Don’t leave the water running.

These are just a few of the simple steps that your family can take to reduce the water consumption in your home. With the cost of water in Adelaide continually on the rise, every little bit can save you money. For more tips on how to increase your water savings, contact us today.