Water saving initiatives to support vacation rental hosts this water saving week

1. Keep your plumbing up-to-date

One of the most straightforward ways to save water—and a lot of it—is to ensure your plumbing is in top shape. Leaky faucets, toilets, and appliances can waste gallons of water a day. Don’t let these silent drips drain your resources!

Action Points:

• Regularly inspect and fix any leaks.

• Consider professional plumbing check-ups annually.

• Replace old gaskets and washers as needed.

2. Purchase water-efficient appliances, faucets, and more

Modern technology offers a plethora of water-efficient options, from low-flow showerheads to ENERGY STAR-rated dishwashers. These not only save water but can also reduce your energy bills.

Key investments:

• Low-flow faucets and showerheads.

• Water-efficient dishwashers and washing machines.

• Smart irrigation controllers for outdoor spaces.

3. Full loads only: washing machines & dishwashers

Encourage your guests (and yourselves) to only run washing machines and dishwashers with full loads. This maximizes water usage efficiency, ensuring that every drop counts.

Simple Tips:

• Include a reminder in your guest welcome pack.

• Provide clear instructions on the best practices for using appliances.

4. Have a home energy audit

Sometimes, the best insights come from the professionals. A home energy audit can pinpoint exactly where you’re losing water and how to fix it. It’s an investment that pays off in long-term savings.

Steps to take:

• Schedule a professional audit.

• Implement recommended water-saving measures.

• Repeat audits periodically to stay efficient.

5. Install water butts

Water butts are fantastic for collecting rainwater, which can then be used for a variety of purposes. It's an easy way to make use of what nature provides freely.

Usage ideas:

• Watering plants.

• Cleaning outdoor areas.

• Replenishing ponds.

6. Install a low-flush toilet

Toilets account for a significant portion of household water usage. Modern dual-flush systems can save a significant amount of water, making them a worthy upgrade.

Considerations:

• Replace older toilets with dual-flush models.

• Use water-saving bags in older toilets to reduce water per flush.

7. Provide seasonal produce for your guests

Sourcing seasonal fruits and vegetables from local suppliers can significantly reduce water usage, as in-season crops require less water than their out-of-season counterparts.

Tips for hosts:

• Partner with local farms or markets.

• Educate guests on the benefits of seasonal produce.

• Feature seasonal recipes in your welcome materials.

8. Post-stay check-ups

After each stay, a quick check-up can go a long way in preventing water waste. Ensure all taps are off, toilets aren’t running, and appliances are properly shut down.

Checklist:

• Inspect all plumbing fixtures.

• Confirm appliances are turned off.

• Look for any signs of leaks.

9. Remind guests of their responsibility

A little nudge can make a big difference. Place friendly reminders about water conservation in key areas like the kitchen and bathroom.

Ideas for reminders:

• Welcome pack notes on water usage.

• Signs above sinks and toilets.

• Eco-friendly tips in the property guidebook.

10. Rely on the weather for garden watering

In many regions, natural rainfall is sufficient for garden maintenance, reducing the need for additional watering. Let nature do its thing and keep the hosepipe tucked away.

Gardening tips:

• Choose drought-resistant plants.

• Water in the early morning or late evening if necessary.

• Use mulch to retain soil moisture.

By implementing these water-saving initiatives, you’re not only supporting the environment but also appealing to a growing segment of eco-conscious travelers. It’s a win-win situation—saving water can also save money and enhance your property’s appeal.

So, why wait? Let’s make every drop count this Water Saving Week! Start with one or two initiatives, and watch your water conservation efforts grow.

For more tips and sustainable practices, stay tuned and share your own water-saving successes with us in the comments below. Together, we can make a big splash in the world of sustainable vacation rentals!