Save Water and Stay Safe in Your Garden This Summer

Householders are urged to act now to save water and stay safe when enjoying water their garden this August by following five simple tips from WaterSafe, the UK register for approved drinking water contractors.

Five top tips to save water and stay safe in the garden

1. Know how to find and use your stop tap, usually found under the kitchen sink

2. Make sure your outdoor tap, and any other water goods, are fitted with a backflow prevention device to prevent backflow of dirty water into the mains water system

3. Watch out for leaking or dripping taps – including your outside tap – as a dripping tap can cost up to £15 per year of wasted water

4. Check if your water company offers free or discounted water-saving goodies via the Save Water Save Money or Get Water Fit websites

5. Use water butts to collect rainwater from rooves every time it rains – not only will this save money long-term, but plants prefer rainwater to tap water

Julie Spinks, Director of WaterSafe, explains: “We’re fortunate in the UK to enjoy safe and wholesome drinking water and all WaterSafe approved plumbers are qualified in the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations and Scottish Byelaws that help keep it that way.

“From making sure your taps and appliances are compliant with safety regulations, to detecting leaks and offering water-saving advice, WaterSafe approved contractors are here to help with a variety of water and plumbing-related tasks to keep you safe and help you save money.”

Supporting customers to reduce their water use is an important part of the job too, especially in the summer months, Julie explains: “Saving water means saving money too as even small leaks can quickly add to your water bill if left unchecked.

“Water use can soar in the summer months as many of us spend more time outside – gardening, cooling off and enjoying the warmer weather.

“It’s important to know that using a hosepipe or sprinkler can use the same amount of water in just one hour as a family of four would in one day, so your bill can quickly add up.

“Increased water use can also have a detrimental effect on the plants and animals which use the rivers and reservoirs where most of the UK’s water comes from.

“Making simple changes such as checking outside taps for leaks, fitting backflow prevention devices and water saving devices to appliances can all make a big difference to your water bill, and most importantly, your safety.”

To find an approved WaterSafe contractor in your area, use the plumber search at right.