Residents will be able to get financial assistance to buy a rainwater tank and water-efficient washing machine, toilets and showerheads, under an expanded rebates program being introduced by Armidale Regional Council from October 1.
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The program is part of the move to level five water restrictions for all town water users in the Armidale region, and aims to provide more assistance for households to save water by paying 50 per cent of the purchase cost, up to a maximum amount for each product.
Mayor Simon Murray said council recognised necessary next steps for further water savings could require financial investment by home owners to install water saving devices.
"A front-loading washing machine with a WELS rating of 4.5 stars or higher is one of the most effective ways many households and businesses can make substantial water savings," he said.
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"We can also make considerable inroads by replacing single-flush and old dual-flush toilets."
Cr Murray said the implementation of rainwater tanks at more homes would help take some strain off the region's town water supplies.
"The real benefit with rainwater tanks will come in the long term, once we've had substantial rain to fill those tanks, to give our region greater resilience during extended dry periods in the future," he said.
To be eligible for rebates, water tanks must:
- have a 12- month warranty
- have a minimum capacity of 2000 litres
- be used for collection and storage of rainwater on site
- comply with Council's planning regulations (including the tank's installation)
Tanks and toilets must be installed by a licenced plumber, so council will pay up to $100 towards the costs of getting a licenced plumber to fit any of products installed through the rebate program.
The rebate scheme will also assist households to get a plumber to audit their home, to identify and repair leaks and identify further opportunities for water savings.
Toilet and showerhead rebates are only available for existing properties, not new homes.
To be eligible for the rebates, the applicant must own the property where the products are to be installed, or have permission of the owner and must pay the water usage account.
Applications will be accepted from October 1. Forms for rebates and further information are available on council's website. Forms must be accompanied by an Armidale Regional Council water notice and receipts for the purchase and installation of the water-saving device.