Saving water during summer
With the hot temperatures and dry weather, a temporary use ban, more commonly known as a ‘hosepipe ban,’ is being prepared by Thames Water and other water companies.
Water is an essential part of all life, but we still often use it without thinking about where it comes from or that we could run out of fresh water in our pipes.
Every drop of water counts, especially right now, so here are some ways you can save water:
- Swap your hose for a watering can when watering your plants.
You’ll only use a fraction of the water as you would with a hose. You could also re-use the water you have cooked with once it has cooled down- just make sure it isn’t salted!
- Wash your car with a bucket and sponge.
It may be a bit more work, but swapping your hose out for the traditional bucket and sponge will help conserve water. Or better still, delay washing the car for a while and enjoy the sunshine instead!
- Avoid using paddling pools.
While they are a great way to beat the heat, paddling pools not only waste a lot of water but are also a health and safety risk. This is why they are not allowed in our communal areas, and unfortunately, we have to remove any that are found.
- Be smart with your plants.
Moving your plants into the shade on hot days and watering them in the evening will keep them cool and watered. This means they lose less water to evaporation and their leaves are protected from scorching in the sun.
- Swap your bath for a shower.
The average bath uses upwards of 80 litres of water, whilst an eight-minute shower uses 62 litres. If you can, using the shower instead of soaking in the bath saves a lot of water.
- Turn the tap off when brushing your teeth.
Did you know that this simple action could save around 12 litres of water every time?
These are simple things we can all do to save water this summer and even small changes make a difference if we all take steps to implement them. For more information and ways to save water, visit your water provider's website.