How was your summer break?
If you stayed in Christchurch, you likely noticed it was wetter than you’d hoped. In fact, finding consistently good weather across New Zealand this summer seemed to be more the exception than the rule.
All that rain might make it hard to believe water scarcity could be a concern. But here’s the reality: could we be taking our water supply for granted? Is it time to rethink how we save and use water?
The reality is that water is set to become a very valuable commodity in the not-too-distant future. Understanding why this is happening could guide you toward smarter choices – particularly if you’re planning to build or upgrade your home.
Why Water is Becoming a Precious Commodity
Global temperatures are rising, and the climate is becoming increasingly unpredictable. Warmer conditions cause more water to evaporate, leading to heavier and more intense rainfall.
However, this rain doesn’t come gently. Instead, we’re seeing more frequent and violent storms, often accompanied by strong winds and flooding.
Here’s the irony: even though we’re experiencing more extreme rain events, freshwater supplies are still under significant pressure. Prolonged dry spells interrupted by short bursts of heavy rain make it difficult to store and retain water effectively. This growing challenge highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions at both individual and community levels.
Christchurch and the Future of Water Usage
Christchurch City Council has already taken proactive steps to address this issue. Water usage caps have been introduced, currently allowing 900 litres per household per day to encourage responsible use and identify leaks. But stricter measures are on the horizon.
In the coming years, this cap is expected to drop to just 75 litres per person per day.
For context, that’s the equivalent of:
- A 5-minute shower
- 12.5 toilet flushes
- 5 dishwasher cycles
- Or a single load of laundry
Exceeding this limit will result in additional charges. It’s a significant adjustment that will push households to rethink their water habits and embrace conservation strategies.
The Solution: Rainwater Harvesting
So, what can you do? One smart solution is to start collecting the water that lands on your roof. Rainwater harvesting is an efficient, cost-effective way to take control of your water use – and reduce your reliance on public supplies.
With even the most basic system, you can store rainwater to use in your garden. More advanced setups allow you to reuse water for flushing toilets, washing clothes, and more.
Some systems even purify rainwater to make it safe for drinking. The best part? Any water you collect is yours to use, free of charge.
At Energy Efficient Homes, we’ve worked with many clients who don’t want to see their hard-earned money go down the drain – literally. By helping them integrate rainwater harvesting solutions into their homes, they’ve not only gained greater independence but also future-proofed their water usage.
Why Act Now?
As the climate continues to evolve and water supply challenges grow, rainwater harvesting isn’t just a practical solution – it’s an investment in your future. There are options to suit most budgets, and our team can guide you in choosing the right one for your needs.
By acting now, you’re not just building a more efficient home – you’re contributing to a sustainable future where resources are used wisely and responsibly.
At Energy Efficient Homes, we’re passionate about solutions that not only reduce environmental impact but also save our clients money. Together, let’s adapt to a changing climate and thrive with smarter, more sustainable choices.
