Water meters have been around for quite a while and whilst those who have had them installed in their homes are aware of the benefits they can offer, many homeowners are still unsure of exactly what they can do for them and why they should have one…
What is a water meter?
Similar to the way your gas and electric meters work, a water meter is a fitted device which measures how much water you use and only charges you for the exact amount you have used. They can either be fitted inside or outside the house. If they are fitted inside your property, they will also be installed with a reading unit so the meter reading can be taken without someone having to physically enter your property.
How much will it cost?
Many UK water companies will fit the water meter for free – such as Severn Trent Water and Thames Waters – and if you don’t get on with it they will come and remove it.
As explained earlier, they are a pay as you go system so it will measure how many cubic metres you use and you will be charged a set unit for each cubic metre.
Just to put it into perspective, one cubic metre is the same as 1,000 litres of water, and 1,000 litres of water is enough for:
- 13 baths
- 20 full wash loads
- 5 minute shower everyday
- 125 bowls of washing up
What changes can it help make?
If you know that you’ll only get charged for what you have used, it’s surprising how you suddenly become more mindful of your actions. It’s like when you have a pay as you go mobile phone, you are conscious not to use too many minutes talking on the phone, but with a contract where you pay for unlimited minutes, you take advantage of this and make lengthy phone calls.
Most households that get fitted with water meters start to make behavioural changes in order to cut back on their water usage. These can include not leaving the tap running whilst brushing teeth, being more aware of how long you spend in the shower and using water butts for the garden (large containers that collect the rainwater rather than having to use the mains water supply to water the garden).
Real savings
As well as reducing your CO2 footprint, water meters can save you money too. One homeowner to benefit from a water meter reveals that her water charges dropped from £67 a month to £22 a month – an annual saving of £540.
The Water Industry Research body also stated that an average sized family reduced their water usage by between 10 and 15% after having a water meter installed.
So if you’re looking to become more efficient, or make cutbacks on your bills but haven’t been successful yet, then a water meter could be the way forward!
If you’re looking for drainage or wastewater solutions, then please feel free to contact us here at Wildon UK.
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