As the mercury continues to rise across the UK, the hot dry weather is having an impact on levels of demand for water.
Water Wholesaler, Thames Water, is urging businesses and households across the Thames and Greater London region to minimise heavy water usage at peak times.
Thames Water warns that water use could reach unprecedented levels over the next few days, with customers in some areas using water faster than it can be safely treated and pumped to businesses and homes. This high demand will also reduce reservoir levels quicker than usual.
While Thames Water is not planning to impose any temporary usage restrictions at this time, the surge in demand could mean low pressure or interruptions to local water supplies during peak times.
What can businesses do?
Making a few small changes will add up to a big difference and help us avoid having to consider water restrictions later in the year. Key things you can do to help are:
- Reduce the total volume of water your business is using
- Stop or reduce heavy water use during peak times – (7am-11am and 4pm-11pm)
- Stop irrigation during the middle of hot sunny days
- Check for leaks on toilets, taps and urinals. Even a small constant dribble can waste 200-400 litres a day – as much as a family of four’s total daily use.
- Stop urinals from flushing overnight. Even if you don't have sensors fitted, turning off the flow to the urinals could save you thousands of litres every day.
- Educate your staff about saving water. They’re usually dissociated from your business and might not be thinking about water efficiency as they work. Use our free water efficiency resources for businesses to get started.