Water Great Summer

Whatever you’re doing this summer, make the most of water.

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A refreshing swim outdoors, the clink of ice cubes in a cooling drink, a quick shower before heading out with friends – water is essential for a great summer.

See our tips below for how to make the most of water this year.

Make it a day to remember

The beach isn’t the only place to be this summer. Why not visit one of our scenic reservoirs, or find a new way to keep the kids entertained in the garden?

  1. Visit a lake – some of our reservoirs are open to visitors. Take a stroll by the waters and spot some amazing wildlife. Find out more.
  2. Take a trip to a local park, garden or garden centre to find out more about water-savvy planting, and efficient watering methods.
  3. Have fun in the garden – paddling pools aren’t the only way to entertain kids in the summer. From water bottle skittles to bedsheet tents and spray battles.

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Water and the natural world

Water is amazing. We take it for granted that water comes out of the tap when we turn it on, but each droplet has been on a remarkable journey.

  1. Find out more about your water including what’s in it and how it’s treated.
  2. Help local wildlife by adding a pond or birdbath to your garden. If this isn’t possible, even a small pot of flowers can help bees and other insects.
  3. Nature plays a vital role in supporting community wellbeing. We provide support for community groups around the region, from funding water butts on allotments to supporting drought-resistant gardens. Got a great idea for a community project? Why not apply for our Together For Good funding.

Save water, save money

In summer, we tend to use more water – mainly for watering the garden. A few simple steps can help you use less water. If you’re on a water meter, this should reduce your bill. If you don’t have a meter, you might save on energy bills from heating less water.

  1. Choose super-saver showers – have a shower rather than a bath and keep it short and sweet – play a favourite song and see if you can be out before it finishes. A family of four could save around £210 a year in water and energy costs if everyone cut their daily shower by two minutes.
  2. Get a water butt – collect rainwater from your roof to keep your garden green. Bonus - many plants prefer rainwater, which has a different acidity level to tap water. The average UK house roof could collect enough to fill 450 water butts a year.
  3. Fix your leaky loo. Many dual-flush toilets develop a trickle of water against the back. It might look tiny, but a 24/7 leak really adds up over time. Get the valve repaired to save up to £480 a year.

See more water saving tips