Water latest

Drinking water is used for almost everything at home, which means in summer we all tend to use more.

Once the hotter months arrive, if everyone turns on their taps to wash down their patios, clean their cars and water their flowers all at once, it can put a strain on the water supply network.

That’s why we’re asking everyone to make simple changes now, that will save water and let you enjoy more of summer later.

Simple changes outdoors:

• Watering the garden by the butt full to save water later -

Installing a water butt to collect rainwater might not sound like a big deal, but it could make all the difference in hotter months.

We subsidise the cost of water butts, so you get a discount, order here(opens in a new tab).

• Jet washing now to save water later -

Right now, whilst water levels are high it’s the ideal time to jet wash the patio and driveway ready for summer.

• Refilling the hot tub now to save water later -

Again, get summer-ready while our water levels are high and fill up the hot tub now.

• Planting drought-tolerant plants to save water later -

As climate change presents us with the challenge of gardening with less water, choosing plants to suit our growing conditions becomes important.

• Covering pots and borders with mulch to save water later -

Protecting the ground from the heat with mulch, like bark chippings, will lock in moisture and reduce the amount of watering you’ll need to do.

• Weeding now to save water later -

Weeds grow quickly and compete with your plants for valuable moisture, so regular weeding ensures that water is not wasted on weeds.

Simple changes indoors:

• Dipping in and out of the shower to save water later -

Taking a shorter shower in the summer months can really help keep the taps flowing for everyone and save a few quid on your energy bills.

We can help you keep to time, with a free shower timer, order here(opens in a new tab).

• Using the small switch to save water later -

Got a dual flush toilet? The small button releases about a third less water for a shorter flush. So why not switch to the small switch?

• Turning it off while brushing to save water later -

It’s so easy to just have the taps on whilst brushing your teeth, but you could save about a bucket of water but simply turning it off.

• Looking after leaks to save water later -

You might not notice it, but a leaky loo can be costing you as much as 4 baths of water a day. Save precious water by getting your leaky loo fixed.

We can help you find an approved plumber.

Order free leaky loo strips, so you know when you have a leak, here.(opens in a new tab)

Let us know if you find a leak in your loo.

• Cold collecting to save water later -

Collecting cold water in the shower or sink whilst waiting for the hot water so you can use it around the house or garden to water your plants.

• Scraping this summer to save water later -

Running the tap to rinse dishes can use loads of water. Simply scrape away any leftover food straight into your food waste bin and soak pots, pans and plates in a washing-up bowl if needed.

• Chilling now to save water later -

No need to run the tap until it's cold, just keep a reusable bottle topped up in the fridge. So, you will always have refreshing chilled water available.

• Saving up dirty clothes to save water later -

Washing a full machine load of clothes uses less water and energy than 2 half-loads. This means lower bills as well as saving water.

Find out more about saving money and water through your appliances(opens in a new tab).