IQ NewswireNew research shows that the average UK family wastes £200 yearly on unnecessary water use. With rising water prices, cutting costs and saving resources is more critical than ever
As water bills continue to increase, British households are feeling the pinch. Data from Ofwat shows average water bills increased by 6.1% this year, rising by £27.40 to reach £473. Over the next five years, customers of Southern Water, which serves parts of Hampshire, Kent, Sussex, and the Isle of Wight, will face the most significant increase, with bills rising by an average of £183.
But don’t despair – there are practical solutions to help you turn off the tap on high water costs. Inemesit Ukpanah, water efficiency expert at GreenMatch UK, shares her top tips for reducing your water bill and potentially saving hundreds of pounds each year.
Upgrade Your Fixtures: “Many homes are pouring money down the drain,” Ukpanah says. “Outdated fixtures waste gallons daily.” She recommends swapping old showerheads for low-flow models, cutting usage by up to 60%. Installing faucet aerators can slash sink water use by 50%. Upgrading to high-efficiency toilets saves up to 13,000 litres yearly per household.
Hunt Down Leaks: “A dripping tap isn’t just annoying – it’s costly,” Ukpanah warns. “Even small leaks waste thousands of litres annually.” She advises regularly checking for leaks, especially in hidden areas like under sinks. Fixing drips promptly – most are simple DIY jobs. Using your water meter to detect invisible leaks can prevent unexpected high bills.
Rethink Daily Habits: Small changes add up. Ukpanah suggests aiming for 5-minute showers (save up to £70 yearly). Turning off taps while brushing teeth saves 12 litres daily. Only running full loads of laundry and dishes significantly reduces water consumption.
Choose Plants Wisely: “Your garden can be beautiful and water-efficient,” Ukpanah advises. “Swap thirsty lawns for drought-resistant native plants. These require less watering once established.” She recommends grouping plants with similar water needs together for efficient irrigation. “This approach conserves water and creates a more sustainable and low-maintenance landscape.”
Harvest Water: “Why pay for water when nature provides it free?” Ukpanah asks. She recommends installing water butts to collect rainwater for gardens. Using greywater from baths or sinks to water plants further reduces reliance on treated water.
Consider a Water Meter: “For many, especially smaller households, switching to a metered bill can mean big savings,” she explains. Most providers offer trial periods, so it’s worth investigating your potential savings.
Choose Efficient Appliances: When it’s time to replace appliances, look for water-efficient models. “New dishwashers use 75% less water than washing by hand,” Ukpanah notes. Energy-efficient washing machines can also dramatically cut water usage.
By implementing these expert tips, households can significantly reduce their water usage and bills. “We’ve seen families cut their water costs by 30% or more,” she says. “It’s good for your wallet and environment.”
With water scarcity becoming a growing concern, every drop saved counts. Start implementing these changes today and see your savings add up.
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