New water efficiency labels could help households save money

Households could see their water bills come down thanks to a new product labelling scheme.

Water efficiency labels, similar to existing energy rating labels, will be added to appliances like taps, toilets, washing machines and showers from this autumn.

Speaking to ITV News, water minister Emma Hardy said the labels will save people money for two reasons.

“One, they use less water, and two, they’re using less energy to heat that water,” she commented.

“11% of peoples’ energy bills are actually because of the cost of heating water.”

What can I do to cut my water bills?

If you’re struggling with your water bills, there are practical steps you can take to bring them down.

Speak to your water company

Water providers won’t cut your supply if you fall behind with your bill.

But that doesn’t mean you can ignore a demand for payment.

So if you’re finding it hard to keep up with your bills, contact your water provider right away. 

They can help you get the right support for your situation.

Social tariffs

You might be eligible for a discounted rate (social tariff) if you’re on a low income or getting certain benefits.

Each water company will have its own eligibility criteria.

So get in touch with your provider to find out what support they offer and if you qualify.

Switch to a water meter

If you have a meter, you’ll only pay for the water you use.

Installation is usually free and some companies offer a two-year trial period, so you can switch back if it doesn’t save money.

Many water providers also offer online calculators so you can estimate whether a meter would cut your bills.

WaterSure

If you use lots of water because of a medical condition or having three or more school-age children, you may be eligible for the WaterSure scheme.

It helps certain people with high water usage by capping their bills at the average for their area.

To qualify, you’ll need to have a water meter and receive certain benefits.

Make small changes to how you use appliances

Simple habits can also help you save.

For example, you could:

• run washing machines and dishwashers only when full
• cut your shower from 10 minutes to five
• turn the tap off while brushing your teeth

Using less hot water also means lower energy bills, so you could save on both water and electricity.

Fix leaks and dripping taps quickly

Small leaks can waste huge amounts of water.

For example:

• a dripping tap can waste over 5,000 litres a year
• a leaking toilet can waste up to 400 litres a day

If you’re on a meter, that could mean more than £300 a year literally going down the drain.

Some water companies offer free leak checks or subsidised repairs.

If you rent your home, your landlord is usually responsible for fixing leaks.

Use free water-saving gadgets

Many water companies give away free devices to help you use less water.

These may include:

• shower timers to keep showers under four minutes
• tap inserts that reduce water flow but keep pressure strong
• cistern displacement bags that reduce water used per flush

They’re usually easy to install and can cut your water use without changing your routine.

Get everyone in your home involved

You’ll save more if everyone in your household does their bit.

So encourage family members or housemates to embrace water-saving habits, such as:

• turning off taps while brushing teeth
• taking shorter showers
• only running appliances when they’re full

Even small changes can make a noticeable difference to your bill if everyone helps.