Why your water use goes up during a heatwave - and what help is available if you’re worried about bills

When the weather heats up, most of us use more water without even realising it.

You might be taking extra showers to cool down, watering the garden more often or filling up paddling pools to keep the kids entertained. Washing clothes more frequently, drinking more water and using fans or portable air conditioners can all push up household bills too.

For households already struggling with rising living costs, a heatwave can quickly turn into another financial worry.

The good news is that help is available. If you’re on a low income or worried about paying your water bill, there are schemes that could reduce what you pay or make bills easier to manage.

Why water bills can rise in hot weather

During warmer weather, households tend to use significantly more water. Extra showers, baths and laundry loads can all increase usage, while watering gardens and filling paddling pools can add even more.

If you have a water meter, using more water usually means paying more. Even if you don’t have a meter, summer can still put pressure on your finances as other household costs rise alongside your water use.

For larger households and people with medical conditions that require additional water use, costs can become particularly difficult to manage during a heatwave.

What is WaterSure?

WaterSure is a scheme designed to help households that need to use a lot of water. If you qualify, your water bill is capped, which means you won’t pay more than a set amount each year, even if your usage increases.

You may be eligible if you receive certain benefits, such as universal credit, pension credit or income-related Employment and Support Allowance, and either have three or more children under the age of 19 living at home or someone in the household with a medical condition that requires extra water use.

Conditions that may qualify include Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, kidney failure requiring home dialysis and severe skin conditions, although eligibility can vary depending on your supplier.

Each water company has slightly different rules, so it’s worth checking directly with your provider to see whether you can apply.

What are social tariffs?

Many water companies also offer social tariffs. These are reduced water bills for households on low incomes.

The level of support varies depending on the supplier and your circumstances, but some households could receive significant discounts on their bills. Eligibility is often based on your household income, the benefits you receive or whether your water bill takes up a large proportion of your income.

You usually need to apply directly through your water supplier, and some companies may ask for proof of income or benefits as part of the process.

Other help available with water bills

Some suppliers can also offer more flexible payment plans if you’re struggling to keep up with bills. This might include lower monthly payments, payment breaks or longer repayment periods if you already owe money.

Many water companies also run hardship funds that may be able to help clear water debt in certain circumstances.

You may also be able to get free water-saving devices from your supplier, such as water-saving shower heads, tap inserts or water butts. These can help reduce the amount of water you use and lower future bills.

Simple ways to cut water use during a heatwave

There are small changes that can help reduce water use without making summer less enjoyable. Taking shorter showers, waiting until the washing machine is full before using it and watering plants early in the morning or later in the evening can all make a difference.

You could also reuse paddling pool water for the garden or keep drinking water in the fridge so you don’t need to run the tap until it turns cold.

Even small changes can help keep costs under control over the summer months.

Don’t ignore water bill worries

If you’re worried about paying your water bill or have already fallen behind, it’s important not to ignore the problem. Speaking to your supplier early could help you access support before debts build up further.

While water companies in England and Wales cannot disconnect your water supply because of unpaid bills, missed payments can still lead to debt collection action and added stress.

If you’re struggling with several household bills at once, speak to us. We can help you understand your options and feel more in control of your finances.