Use Water Efficiently to Save Money on Your Bills, Says WaterSafe

Households in the UK could be missing out on making savings on their energy bills as almost half aren’t aware of the amount of gas, electricity or oil used to heat water in homes.

Only 49% of people surveyed by WaterSafe*, the UK’s register for approved plumbers, knew energy used to heat water for washing, cooking and cleaning makes up a third of energy bills.

Around 60% of people said they would make a conscious effort to save water if they knew they could save on bills and reduce their carbon footprint.

Small changes can all add up to making a big difference to using hot water more efficiently, including:

• Taking a shorter shower

• Fitting water-saving fixtures and fittings, such as tap and shower aerators, which add air into the water to maintain the flow while using less water

• When buying new household appliances, looking for those that are water-saving and approved by the Unified Water Label Scheme.

Households on a water meter who are billed for the amount of water they use, will also make savings on their water and wastewater bills.

WaterSafe is the national register of qualified, approved contractors, supported by all UK water companies and the drinking water regulators. It was set up to promote competent installers and help keep the UK’s drinking water safe in homes and businesses.

Julie Spinks, Director of WaterSafe, said: “With so many people struggling to make ends meet, it’s important to understand the link between using water more efficiently to help keep metered bills as low as possible. All WaterSafe-approved plumbers are trained in the water regulations and can advise on how to avoid wasting water.

“While we want to do all we can to support households to reduce the water they waste, it’s important to say we’re not trying to restrict use. There’s lots of info on our website watersafe.org.uk and I would also recommend contacting your local water company to see if they give away water-saving products for free,” Julie added.

*Based on 2,000 people living in the UK in September 2022