Public Servant Lifestyle

Water companies and their customers have emerged wiser from the recent period of water restrictions, the Consumer Council for Water has announced.

Thames Water, Southern Water, Three Valleys Water and Sutton and East Surrey Water have all announced the end of restrictions on using hosepipes, with only customers of South East Water and Mid Kent Water still subject to restrictions.

Dame Yve Buckland, Chair of the Consumer Council for Water, said: "Consumers, who helped water companies by reducing consumption during the hot dry spell last summer, will be relieved that restrictions have been lifted before the planting and growing season starts in the garden. However, it's still important that we use water wisely.

"Consumers are prepared to do their bit, both by avoiding wastage and by considering water-efficient devices and simple measures such as save-a-flush bags. At the same time, water companies are sharpening up their act, and all involved in the water industry are working on better storage, saving and managing water supplies. We've all learned the lessons of the past nine months."

The Consumer Council for Water continues to advocate its five fast fixes on water saving, for household consumers and businesses.

Five fast fixes for households from the Consumer Council for Water:

Fix any leaks. A dripping tap losing one drop a second will waste 15 litres of water a day

Use water efficient appliances in the home. A typical family of four uses the equivalent of two baths of water every day: fit a Save-a-Flush device - you may see it called a 'hippo' or even a 'bog hog' - and you could save a litre each time you flush

Save water when washing - take a shower rather than a bath, don't leave the tap on when brushing your teeth and use the plug in the washbasin when shaving

Save water in the kitchen - use a bowl instead of leaving the tap on when washing up, boil only the amount of water you need in the kettle, and keep cool water in the fridge rather than running the tap to get a cold drink. And don't use dishwashers or washing machines half full

Save water in the garden - collect rainwater from the roof in a water butt, and give your plants a soaking once a week rather than watering daily. Water your plants in the early mornings or evenings, reducing the amount lost through evaporation

Dame Yve added: "The drought of 2006 may be behind us, but it has highlighted serious longer term priorities, not least reducing leakage from the water supply network. Leakage control must continue alongside more water-efficient building and continued development of more water-efficient appliances by manufacturers."

"Meanwhile, water companies are developing new water resources, including new reservoirs where appropriate. They must also look at better local sharing of water supplies across company borders."

For more useful information the following links may be useful:

Consumer Council for Water

Environment Agency

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