As Australia faces more frequent droughts and increasing pressure on water supplies, how we manage our backyards has never been more important. Pools, gardens, and outdoor living areas are a staple of the Aussie lifestyle, but they can also be a major source of water use if not managed wisely.
Fortunately, there are simple, effective ways to reduce your environmental impact while still enjoying your outdoor space. Whether you're topping up your pool or tending your garden, here are eight smart water-saving strategies every homeowner should know.
Start your water-saving journey with certified solutions. Climate Care Certified products and systems are rigorously tested to ensure they meet strict standards for water efficiency, energy conservation, and sustainability. These include:
Pool covers that minimise evaporation
Efficient pumps that optimise water flow with less power
Automated water levellers that prevent overfilling
Smart irrigation systems that reduce waste
When you see the CCC tick, you know the product or service has been endorsed as a better environmental choice—without compromising performance.
Uncovered pools can lose up to 10,000 litres of water each year through evaporation alone. A high-quality pool cover:
Reduces evaporation by up to 97%
Helps maintain a consistent water temperature
Lowers chemical use by shielding from UV rays
Minimises debris, reducing cleaning and maintenance
There are options to suit every pool—from thermal blankets to automated roller covers. Make covering your pool a daily habit or install an automated system to make it effortless.
Old or poorly maintained equipment can silently waste water and energy. Smart pool management includes:
Installing a variable-speed pump, which uses only as much power and water as needed
Servicing filters and pumps regularly to ensure they're operating efficiently
Using a robotic pool cleaner, which can be more efficient and reduce backwash frequency
Efficient equipment isn’t just good for the planet—it also reduces your power bill and extends the life of your pool.
Backwashing is necessary for pool hygiene, but it can be wasteful if overdone. Here’s how to cut back:
Only backwash when the filter pressure gauge indicates it’s time
Consider backwash recovery systems that filter and recycle the water
Check for leaks in pipes, fittings, and pool structure regularly—especially around pump seals, joints, and skimmer boxes
A leak the size of a pinhole can lose hundreds of litres per day, so regular inspection pays off.
Your garden can be both lush and low-maintenance. Here’s how:
Choose native and drought-tolerant plants like grevilleas, kangaroo paws, or lavender
Group plants by watering needs to maximise efficiency
Use organic mulch (like bark chips) to retain soil moisture and reduce watering frequency
Install permeable surfaces like gravel or pavers to reduce runoff and help the soil absorb rainfall
This approach enhances biodiversity while dramatically reducing outdoor water use.
Timing is everything. Watering during cooler parts of the day—early morning or evening—means:
Less evaporation
Better plant absorption
Reduced risk of fungal disease (compared to nighttime watering)
Also, avoid watering when it’s windy. Even a gentle breeze can blow spray off-target and waste water. And always check local water regulations—many areas have designated watering days.
Installing a rainwater tank is one of the most impactful steps you can take. Use collected water for:
Topping up your pool
Watering the garden
Washing outdoor areas or vehicles
Rainwater is free, clean, and naturally soft—perfect for non-drinking uses around the home. Match your tank size to your roof space and rainfall zone for best results.
A water-conscious household works best when everyone’s onboard:
Encourage kids to turn off outdoor taps, use watering cans, and report drips
Ask guests to shower before swimming to reduce chemical load and water treatments
Use signage or reminders in entertaining areas to encourage mindful water use
The more people involved, the greater the impact—and kids especially can become proud eco-champions.
Water conservation doesn’t mean giving up the pool or garden you love—it simply means making smarter choices. By implementing even a few of these strategies, you’ll not only save water and reduce costs, but also contribute to a more sustainable future for all Australians.
Explore the Climate Care Certified range today and find trusted products that deliver performance, efficiency, and peace of mind.