Garage and driveway
Washing your car and cleaning your driveway are activities that traditionally used a lot of water. Here are some ways to reduce water consumption while still having a clean driveway and car.
Driveways
Water restrictions in most areas have meant that many businesses and home owners are no longer permitted to hose down driveways, paths, concrete and paved areas. But there are alternative ways to keep these areas clean using minimal amounts of water or even no water at all.
Use a broom, brush or rake to sweep and clean outdoor paths and paving instead of hosing them down with water.
Use a broom, brush or rake to sweep and clean outdoor paths and paving instead of hosing them down with water.
Tips for washing cars
- Use a waterless car wash - there are now a number of these products available
- If water restrictions permit, wash cars, boats and other vehicles on the lawn (if practical) with a bucket not a running hose. Use a trigger nozzle or a positive shut-off nozzle infrequently for occasional rinsing sprays.
- Use captured ‘warm-up’ water from inside the home or treated greywater to wash vehicles.
- Use a commercial car wash that recycles its wash water.
Commercial Car Wash Rating Scheme
There is a 5 star rating scheme to help you choose the most water efficient commercial car wash for your vehicle. The Australian Car Wash Association's star rating:
- Identiefies the amount of potable water used by equipment in a standard wash
- Rates the water efficiency of that equipment
- ACWA Water Rating SchemeFind out more about the commercial car wash water rating.