Save water in your rental property. Water is an indispensable resource that many of us take for granted. In fact, water usually has a low cost compared to other household supplies, which favour’s its wastefulness even in rental apartments.
Be that as it may, wasting water is something we should all avoid for the sake of our planet. Drought is a silent evil that is gradually becoming evident in many places and this situation of water stress calls for urgent measures.
Efficient water management
Water is a non-renewable and limited natural resource. That is, the quantity that exists is always the same. However, water demand is increasing due to population growth and socioeconomic development. This causes an imbalance that, if maintained, according to the UN, will cause world demand to exceed existing water resources by 40% by 2030.
It is, therefore, necessary to use water efficiently in order to meet demand while respecting the environment. This requires better management of this resource at both the general and individual levels. Everyone, from their own home, can make a big change.
How is water consumption in the home?
To make better water management at home is important to know the starting point. The easiest way is to look at the bill, which shows the consumption during the last month.
To have reference, the average consumption per citizen is 170 litres per day. Seventy percent of the expenditure takes place in the bathroom where every time the cistern is flushed, 10 litres are used and in a shower, up to 100 liters can go down the drain every five minutes of duration.
Tips for saving water in a rented apartment
Unless they are included in the expenses, water costs are usually borne by the tenant. Therefore, anything we can do to save water will be good not only for the planet but also for our pocket.
Below you have a series of tips that work to lower the water consumption of your apartment and is that, unlike electricity (where we can lower the power term to save), in order to reduce the water bill the only thing we can do is to focus on consumption: every drop counts.
Prioritize showers over baths
Although it is increasingly difficult to find a home with a bathtub because now the trend is to opt for the shower, if there is a bathtub in the rented apartment it is advisable to use it wisely.
Of course, one can take relaxing baths from time to time, but it is advisable to change the long baths for quick showers, turning off the faucet when we are not using water; for example, when we soap ourselves. In this way, we will be saving water with a small gesture.
Use the dishwasher.
If there is a dishwasher in the rented apartment, it is advisable to prioritize it when washing the dishes. To save water, it is advisable to use the dishwasher when it is completely full unless there are no dishes to eat. In this way, in a single wash, all the dishes and cutlery will shine as if they had just been bought and with a considerable saving of water.
Installing water-saving accessories
There are now some accessories that help save water when we open the faucets. These accessories allow for greater efficiency when using water, such as temperature modulators, which heat the water faster so you don’t have to waste water waiting for it to come up to temperature, or flow regulators or atomizers, which cause less water to come out of the faucet.
Turning off the faucet when brushing teeth or washing dishes
And speaking of faucets, the biggest water-saving gesture is to turn it off. Many people tend to leave the faucet running even when they are not really using the water stream, such as when brushing their teeth, for example. Turning off the tap at these times is a small gesture that is of great help to the planet.
Recycle the water that we are going to throw away
Sometimes, the water we have used can have a second or third life. For example, while showering, we can keep a bucket in the bathtub or shower to collect some water and use it to flush the toilet.
If we wash the fruit in the sink, it is advisable to do it in a small container instead of using the water jet; in this way, we can use that water to water the plants. And you can also reuse the water to cook pasta, which can be used to water plants, make sauces, cook stews, soak vegetables, wash dishes, or even make homemade bread and pizza dough.
Watering at certain times
When watering plants during the central hours of the day, the water evaporates more easily, so it ends up yielding much less. It is best to water at dusk or dawn. You will use less water and your plants will thank you for it.
Keep cold water in the refrigerator
It seems silly but it is common to let the tap water run for a few seconds so that it comes out cold. If instead you get used to having a bottle of water in the fridge, you will always have cold water at your disposal without having to open the tap. It’s a small gesture that can save you a few liters at the end of the month.
Other tips
- Don’t use the toilet to dispose of papers, plastics, etc. It is not a wastebasket. It can clog and you will save up to 55 litres per day (each flush is about 10 litres).
- If you scrub by hand, use (if you can) one basin for soaping and one for rinsing. This can save up to 115 litres
- Keep an eye out for leaking taps throughout the house and make sure they are tightly closed. Up to 11,000 litres can be lost in a year due to dripping.
- Do not rinse dishes before putting them in the dishwasher. Today’s appliances have sufficient capacity to clean the dishes well without the need for prior washing.
Innovative solutions to save water at home
In addition to these small gestures to favour resource management, you can also incorporate some of these water-saving devices in your home.
- Faucet aerator: it is easily installed in the faucet spout and reduces water use by 4%. This can save up to 2,000 litres of water per year.
- Shower timer: this is an intelligent system that measures the amount of water used by each person in the shower and emits a signal when the consumption exceeds a certain amount. It is easily installed in the shower pipe.
- Dual-flush cistern: this system is already very common in bars and restaurants as well as in homes. The cistern has two buttons to choose the flush volume: one button releases about 2 litres and the other between 5 and 10 litres.
- Rainwater tanks: these are used to store the rainwater that runs down from the roof into the gutters and can be used for watering, for example, the garden.
- Water recirculation system: this mechanism circulates the water in a closed circuit until it reaches 35 degrees. Thus, when you open the faucet, the water comes out hot immediately and there is no need to let the water run.
- Thermostatic faucet: these faucets have, on the one hand, a temperature regulator, and on the other, the opening and closing of the flow. In this way, the water comes out at the selected temperature and we do not have to wait for it to come out hot.
These are some of the devices that can be incorporated into the home to reduce water consumption and save. Most of them are very simple to install, so no work is required and, in many cases, the intervention of a professional is not necessary.
In a place like Gibraltar, where there is little rainfall throughout the year, water saving is certainly something to be taken into account.
Living in The Anchorage, South District Gibraltar offers several advantages
Scenic Location: The Anchorage is situated in the picturesque South District of Gibraltar, providing residents with breath-taking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The area is known for its beautiful coastline, which makes it an ideal place for nature lovers and those who appreciate stunning vistas.- Peaceful Atmosphere: The Anchorage is a tranquil residential area, offering a peaceful and serene environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It provides a quieter living experience compared to other parts of Gibraltar, making it suitable for individuals or families seeking a calm and relaxed lifestyle.
- Proximity to Amenities: While The Anchorage offers a serene atmosphere, it is still conveniently located near essential amenities. The area is in close proximity to schools, healthcare facilities, shopping centres, restaurants, and recreational options. Residents can enjoy easy access to everyday conveniences without having to travel far.
- Security and Safety: Gibraltar, including The Anchorage, is known for its high level of security. The territory has a strong law enforcement presence and a low crime rate, providing residents with a safe living environment. This aspect makes it an appealing choice for families and individuals looking for a secure place to call home.
- Outdoor Activities: The Anchorage offers residents ample opportunities for outdoor activities. With its stunning coastline, residents can enjoy walks along the beach, swimming, snorkelling, or simply relaxing in the sun. The area is also close to nature reserves and parks, where residents can engage in hiking, picnicking, and other outdoor pursuits.
- Proximity to Gibraltar’s Attractions: Living in The Anchorage allows for easy access to Gibraltar’s popular attractions. The Rock of Gibraltar, Europa Point Lighthouse, St. Michael’s Cave, and other historical and cultural landmarks are within reach. Residents can explore these sites and enjoy the rich heritage and natural beauty of the area.
- International Connectivity: Gibraltar has an international airport and is well-connected by sea and air to various destinations. Living in The Anchorage provides convenient access to travel opportunities, allowing residents to explore neighbouring countries and beyond with ease.
- Strong Community Spirit: The Anchorage has a close-knit community where neighbours often form lasting friendships. Community events and gatherings are common, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among residents. This aspect can contribute to a fulfilling and supportive social life.
Scenic Location: The Anchorage is situated in the picturesque South District of Gibraltar, providing residents with breath-taking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The area is known for its beautiful coastline, which makes it an ideal place for nature lovers and those who appreciate stunning vistas.
CENTURY 21 GIBRALTAR offers a 4-bedroom apartment located in the well-known development of The Anchorage. The apartment is situated on a low floor, giving it easy access, 4 bedrooms, 1 master bedroom with its en-suite bathroom looking into the garden area, and the 3 smaller bedrooms looking towards the rock.
Modern kitchen open plan with the dining area and lounge. The lounge has ceiling-to-floor windows looking into the garden. Leading from the lounge you have access to the terrace which also has its own stairs leading to the garden/Gym hall.
The apartment also brings 1 private allocated garage parking space.
Contact CENTURY 21 GIBRALTAR‘s sales specialist, Vishal Mulchnadani, today, he can assist you in English and Spanish. Click HERE for more information, Tel: +350 56285000 – Email: sales@century21gibraltar.com.
