6 facts you never knew about the UK water network
Wednesday 30th October 2024
UK water is a lot more complicated than turning on a tap…
Whether you’re a bustling restaurant or a simple office, water is a vital component in the running of any business. However, many organisations in the UK aren’t aware of how the water network they rely on so much operates, and its impact on their day-to-day operations.
Getting to grips with how this system works can help you make informed decisions about your utilities and sustainability – even saving you costs in the long run.
With that in mind, here are some surprising facts about the UK water network that every business should know.
The UK water network is over 345,000 kilometres long
More than 345,000 kilometres of pipes make up the UK’s water network. This equates to nearly nine times the circumference of the Earth.
This intricate system of pipes ensures that water reaches every home and business across the nation, from remote rural areas to bustling city centres. Business across all sizes and sectors rely on consistent water supply, so it’s important to appreciate the scale and complexity involved in maintaining this essential service.
Leakage is a major issue, with over 3 billion litres lost daily
Water leaks are one of the most significant challenges facing the UK water industry. Every day, more than 3 billion litres of water are lost due to leakage, which is enough to fill over 1,200 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
For businesses, this emphasizes the importance of monitoring water usage and identifying leaks promptly. Undetected leaks can lead to higher bills and even potential property damage, while resolving leaks can save you money and improve your sustainability standing.
The average business uses 50,000 litres of water every year
Every year, the average UK business uses around 50,000 litres of water. To put it in perspective, this is equivalent to the volume of over 200 standard bathtubs.
Depending on your size or industry, your usage may be lower or even significantly higher, especially if you're in manufacturing, hospitality, or healthcare. Facing your water consumption habits head-on can help you identify areas for efficiency, improvements, and cost savings.
Water prices vary greatly across the UK
Domestic water charges are standardised in the UK, but business water rates can vary significantly depending on both your location and supplier. In some regions, businesses could pay nearly twice as much for the same volume of water compared to others.
It's always worth shopping around or using a broker to find the best water rates for your organisation, especially since deregulation in 2017 allowed businesses to switch water suppliers in England.
Climate change is affecting water availability
Extreme weather patterns are becoming more common in the UK, and the impact of climate change is putting pressure on water resources. Hotter, drier summers and wetter, wilder winters are becoming the norm, and this can lead to water scarcity in some areas. In others, it can increase the risk of flooding.
For businesses, this highlights how essential it is to develop water management strategies that account for changing climate conditions, ensuring operational continuity.
Digital water meters are revolutionising water management
Digital water meters provide businesses with real-time data on water usage, so it’s no surprise they are being more widely used. These devices can alert you to anomalies or unusual patterns that might indicate a leak, helping you avoid unnecessary costs.
By using smart technology and getting on top of their water management, businesses can optimise their water consumption and make informed decisions on sustainability and cost savings, based on accurate data.
Get in touch with Everflow today
Looking for the best business water supplier for your needs? Find out why it’s time to switch and save with Everflow now.