Ways to save on your water bill

ARTICLE * 4 MINUTE READ * TUESDAY 1ST MARCH 2022

 

1. Take regular meter readings

Having regular meter readings keeps your bills as accurate as possible, as well as helping to spot any leaks or problems. You can read more about why meter readings are important, and how to take them here.

2. Make sure you’re getting the best rates

Many small businesses and non-household organisations aren’t aware that they are free to choose their water retailer and could be saving thousands. Based on an average spend of £2,000 p/a on their water and wastewater, SMEs are saving an average of over £500 per year by switching to us.

3. Make sure your site is as water efficient as possible

The more obvious way to save money on water bills is to use less water. However, it’s not always as obvious as you might think, so we’ve put together some things to consider.

How to save on your water bill for your business with these saving devices and tips:

Increase awareness in your organisation; don’t underestimate the value of good signage. Installing water efficient devices and appliances won’t have as much impact if your staff leave water running constantly, so make sure people are aware of the important and impact of water use.

Inside:

  • Tap aerators: these are small devices that you can install yourself in most taps. They work by mixing the water with air as it comes out of the tap, which means that less water is used, while the pressure remains high so that you can effectively perform all necessary activities.
  • Water coolers: Waiting for the tap to run cold for a glass of water can waste 10 litres of water every day. Providing water coolers which deliver instant cold water will reduce this unwanted wastage.
  • Water basins: Make sure there are washing up bowls at each washing up point. These significantly reduce the amount of water needed.
  • Use dual-flush mechanisms and use them well. Dual flush toilets have a split flush button which gives you the choice of how much water to use. Dual flush toilets typically use 4-6 litres of water as opposed to the old style flush systems which use a massive 13 litres per flush. However, lots of people don’t know which button to press and often press both. Use signage or stickers to encourage people to just press the flush they need.
  • Hippos: If you can’t afford dual-flush controls, look into the alternatives, like a cistern displacement device. These reduce the volume of water that the cistern can hold, which reduces the water used in each flush.
  • Showers: Consider using low-flow shower heads to reduce usage, and shower timers to increase awareness and limit water wasted each time someone uses the shower.
  • Install most eco models of appliances you can afford, and use the eco setting where possible
  • Check toilets and urinals. Make sure that there isn’t unnecessary water discharge between flushes. This can mount up to a huge amount of water.
  • Fix any dripping taps: a dripping tap can waste more than 5,500 litres of water a year.

Outside:

  • If you don’t already have one, get a water butt. 
  • Avoid large grassy areas if you can. Lawns can be expensive and inefficient to maintain, so consider alternative landscaping ideas.
  • Be careful with sprinklers! Sprinklers use up to 1,000 litres per hour. Make sure you are only using what is needed and be wise about when you water.