Water saving devices and habits to cut bills in 2024
It’s no secret we’re all looking to make better choices, whether it be for the benefit of our pocket or the environment. There are many small changes you can make regarding your water usage, from water saving devices to mindful daily habits which can have a positive impact on your bills and help to #RestoreThePlanet.
The World Health Organisation states to fulfil our basic needs we need 20 litres of water per day.
According to UNICEF, 785 million people (1 in 10) lack access to basic water services and 144 million drink untreated surface water. Those that do not meet their basic water needs are referred to as living under severe ‘water stress’.
The estimated UK average is 142 litres per person per day, which is enough to completely fill two bath tubs.
It’s a shocking truth and one that’s easily to overlook, by simple lack of clarity on how much water your daily activities and appliances are wasting. For further context, here are some facts from Water UK about our daily water usage in the UK:
- A 5 minute power shower uses 65 litres of water, and an electric shower 25 litres.
- The average washing machine cycle uses 50 litres of water per cycle.
- The average dish washer uses 14 litres per cycle.
- One toilet flush uses around 13 litres of water – that’s more water than the average person in the developing world uses daily.
Another thing to consider, is the more water heated, the more energy we use. 4% of the UK’s total emissions of carbon dioxide is a direct result of heating water in our homes.
Now we’ve gained some clarity on how much water we waste, it’s time to look what water saving devices we can use and habits we can implement to combat this…
Water saving devices and achievable habits to consider
- Firstly, start with taking a look at your current water usage. You can apply for a water meter or use a free online calculator, which estimates your usage on several factors.
- Choosing shorter showers and using taps in short bursts when cleaning teeth, washing your face, shaving and doing the dishes can massively decrease your consumption.
Washing machines are most efficient at full capacity, so ensure you are washing full loads. Use the eco setting at a lower temperature to save pennies per wash.
Try to choose showers over baths and consider sharing a shower with a loved one.
- You can utilise barrels to collect rainwater, which can then be used for watering plants and washing your car.
Rainwater is not filtered so do NOT ingest this, as it could pose significant health risks.
- When purchasing new appliances, look for the EU Energy Efficiency Label. Higher graded products are more economical in their water and electricity usage, and will be kinder on your pocket.
- If you receive an unusually high water bill or spot damp areas, you may have a leak in your property. We would recommend reading our blog on 6 steps to spotting a water leak, and checking out our Leak Detection page for more information on how our services can support you.
- The efficiency of your fixtures also has a large impact on your water usage. Consider using water saving devices such as a regulated shower head, tap aerator and dual toilet flush to maximise efficiency.
Placing a plastic bottle filled with water in your toilet tank will reduce the amount of water used when you flush, if a dual flush is not an available option for you.
It is also important to upkeep the maintenance of your fixtures so they are performing at their best. The hard water which runs through our taps and faucets in the UK encourages limescale or mineral build up, so ensure you clean and replace these as appropriate.
- Be mindful of your water usage whilst cooking. Steaming rather than boiling vegetables, and saving water when rinsing these can all add up.
- The Save Water, Save Money campaign supported by the UK water industry, allows you to order free or discounted water saving devices directly to your home.
The available water saving devices vary by location, but some examples are:
- Leaky loo detection strips – does what it says on the tin.
- Regulated shower head– regulates the water flow to improve efficiency.
- Kitchen stream – an aerated tap head.
- Buffaloo cistern bag – another device to save water per flush.
- Shower timer – to help you make a conscious decision on your water usage.
- Water Saving Gel – a granular substance which reduces the need to water plants as frequently.
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or helpless when it comes to reducing bills and helping the environment, but small mindful decisions add up. What’s more is many of these water saving devices are free and easy to integrate into your daily routines, giving you peace of mind that you’re cutting back the pennies whilst helping to #RestoreThePlanet.