Three genius ways to reduce water usage and bring down your bills
EVER rising water bills are becoming a drain on household's finances.
But there are some useful ways to reduce your water usage and bring down your bills.
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WASTE LESS: Before you do anything else, fix any leaks such as a dripping tap. Then, look at how you can use less.
Showers use the most water, so set a time limit of four minutes.
To help you stick to it, search for 'four-minute shower hits' on Spotify and the playlist from charity WaterAid.
Also, get yourself a water-saving shower head, from £10, and turn off the tap when brushing your teeth. In the kitchen, always use dishwashers and washing machines on eco mode.
NO-HOSE SAVINGS: Instead of using a hose, target plants in need with water from a can instead.
Wash fruit and vegetables in a filled washing-up bowl instead of running the tap and then use the leftover water in your garden.
Water early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation.
If you've been meaning to set up a water butt or barrel to collect rainwater, don't put it off any longer.
BILL BUSTERS: You can't change your water company, but there are ways to get extra help.
Check your bill to see if you are on a water meter and, if not, it's free to switch to one.
How to cut energy costs and get help with FOUR key household bills
Generally, if there are fewer people living in your home than bedrooms, a meter could save you money.
Use the Consumer Council for Water's calculator at ccw.org.uk to see how much you'd pay if you had a meter installed.
If you receive certain benefits and need to use a high amount of water, you might qualify for the WaterSure scheme, which caps your bill if you have certain medical conditions or three or more children under 19.
If you're a low earner in England and Wales, you could apply for your water company's cheaper social tariff.
All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.
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