Water-Saving Plumbing Upgrades for Sydney Homes

Sydney's water supply is rainfall-dependent, and water restrictions have been a recurring reality over the years. Upgrading to more efficient plumbing reduces your bills and your household's demand on the system, and many upgrades pay for themselves over time.

Fix leaks first

A dripping tap or a toilet that keeps running can waste a surprising amount of water over a year, and unlike a new fixture, fixing a leak usually costs very little. Before spending money on upgrades, have any leaks repaired and check your water meter for signs of a hidden leak.

Choose WELS-rated fixtures

Australia's WELS scheme rates taps, showerheads, toilets and appliances for water efficiency, with more stars meaning less water used. A high-star showerhead and tapware use significantly less water than older models, often without a noticeable difference in pressure. When replacing any fixture, look for a high WELS star rating.

Upgrade to dual-flush toilets

Older single-flush toilets use a large volume of water on every flush, while a modern dual-flush toilet uses a reduced volume for liquid waste. If your home still has a single-flush toilet, replacing it is one of the most effective single water-saving changes you can make.

Consider a rainwater tank

A rainwater tank plumbed to the toilet, laundry or garden reduces your reliance on mains water and is well suited to Sydney's rainfall pattern, where water can be collected and used during dry spells. Tanks need a plumber to connect them correctly, and some installations require council approval.

Check the hot water delivery

A long run of pipe between the hot water system and the taps means you wait, and waste, a lot of cold water before hot water arrives. A plumber can advise whether relocating the system, insulating pipes or adding a hot water recirculation line makes sense for your home's layout.