A Closer Look

Below is a chart indicating volume use per activity. As one can see, the highlighted items all of which are major contributors to daily use can all be supplemented with rainwater. There is no reason to wash a car or driveway with potable water. Additionally, look at the difference in a conventional sprinkler type irrigation system versus a drip irrigation system. The drip or low volume system approach ensures almost 100% of the water goes directly to the root source where it is needed. Sprays and rotors waste water in the air via vapor escape and missing intended critical root zone targets.

Average Amount of Water Used for Daily Activities

Toilet flush - single cistern 2.2 gallons
Toilet flush - dual single flush 1.1 gallons
Toilet flush - dual full flush 2.2 gallons
Bath 21.9 gallons
Shower (10 minutes) 43.9 gallons
Dishwasher load 10.9 gallons
Washing machine load 32.9 gallons
Brushing teeth with tap running 1.1 gallons
Drinking, cooking, cleaningper person per day 2.2 gallons
Hand basin per use 1.1 gallons
Garden sprinkler per hour 210.0 gallons
Garden dripper per hour 0.9 gallons
Car washing with hose 43.9 gallons
Hosing driveway 21.9 gallons