How to Prepare for Joburg Water Outages: A Resident’s Guide

Water outages are becoming a routine inconvenience in Johannesburg, whether due to scheduled maintenance by Rand Water or emergency repairs by Joburg Water. Being caught off guard, however, doesn’t have to be. With a few simple steps, you can keep your household running smoothly during disruptions.

Store Water Before You Need It

As soon as there’s notice of a potential water outage, begin storing water. This is your first line of defense. Aim to collect:

• Buckets

• Bottles and jugs

• Bathtubs or large basins

Try to store at least:

• 2–3 litres of drinking water per person, per day

• Additional water for cooking, cleaning, hygiene, and pets

Also read: https://www.joburgetc.com/johannesburg/how-to-store-water-joburg-outages/

Use Water Wisely, Even When It’s Flowing

Water-saving habits help not only during outages but also during times of restriction or drought. Build these routines into your daily life:

• Take shorter showers

• Turn off taps while brushing teeth or washing dishes

• Use a dishpan instead of letting water run continuously

• Reuse greywater from bathing or laundry to flush toilets or water the garden

Image 1: Bathroom Mountain

Invest in a Backup Water Supply

Having a backup water supply can make all the difference when outages strike. Consider:

• Installing a water storage tank, either above or below ground

• Rainwater harvesting systems to fill tanks naturally

• Boreholes or wells, if permitted and feasible in your area

These systems offer a buffer against disruptions and promote water independence.

Treat Non-Municipal Water Before Use

Water from tanks, boreholes, or rainwater systems should be treated before use, especially for drinking and cooking. Safe methods include:

• Boiling the water

• Using household water disinfection drops

• Installing a filtration system to remove bacteria, debris, and contaminants

Clean water is essential, even in emergencies.

Image 2: Uno Casa

Fix Leaks Promptly

A single leaking tap can waste up to 30 litres a day – that’s over 10,000 litres a year. Stay on top of small problems before they become big ones:

• Check pipes, taps, and toilets for signs of leaks

• Repair issues as soon as they arise

• Monitor your water bill for unexpected spikes

• Consider a professional inspection if you suspect hidden leaks

Diversify Your Water Sources

Relying solely on municipal supply puts your household at risk during outages. Instead:

• Install a rainwater harvesting system

• Consider boreholes or wells for long-term resilience

• Explore greywater reuse systems to reduce pressure on freshwater sources

Image 3: iStock

These strategies support water conservation and provide alternatives during crises.

Water outages may be beyond your control, but how you respond to them isn’t. With smart planning, daily conservation habits, and a few key investments, your household can stay prepared and resilient through Joburg’s ongoing water challenges. Whether it’s a short disruption or part of a longer-term issue, being ready means less stress – and a lot more peace of mind.

Also read: https://www.joburgetc.com/johannesburg/make-tap-water-safe-johannesburg/

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Source: Juspropa

Featured Image: SAPeople