# Water
The average Melbourne household of four people uses approximately 240,000 litres of drinking water each year. Simple design decisions can reduce consumption of drinking water and help to conserve Victoria's precious water resources.
In the Water category, BESS includes actions regarding water efficiency fixtures, rainwater collection & reuse and water efficient landscaping. Other water efficiency considerations that are not captured in BESS but are also important include:
- Locate hot water units close to the point of use to reduce heat loss through pipes.
- Locate wet areas and kitchens adjacent to each other and the hot water unit.
- Other alternative sources of water such as greywater.
- Using an alternative source of water such as greywater to water plants while they are being established and for ongoing maintenance.