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What factors contributed to the recent hosepipe ban in the UK?
How can I save on my water bill? Thanks for asking. 2022 marked the driest summer in nearly 30 years according to the UK government. There are fears that drought conditions could return this year if there's an extended dry spell. That's not out of the realms of possibility when you consider that as of the 5th of June, London hadn't seen rain in 22 days.
And authorities felt the need to bring in a hosepipe ban across Kent and Sussex which came into effect from the 26th of June. Back in April, a National Drought Group spokesperson said that Britain won't be able to rely on the weather alone to sustain water levels, and that preparations were being made to reduce the drought risk.
It was also suggested that households should focus on saving water to help the efforts. An additional benefit when doing so is that it could help you save money on your water bill. That's all the more relevant when you consider that as of the 1st April, the average annual water bill rose by £31 to hit £448.
That marked a 7.5% increase, which is lower than inflation, but still a big jump, and another burden for many people going through the cost of living crisis.
Isn't water free?
Why do I have to pay for it? We effectively pay for the services that provide access to drinking water. After all, it costs money to treat, store, transport and distribute it to homes and businesses. You've got pumping, transportation, sanitation, necessary infrastructure and employee salaries to take into account. Water also needs to be managed sustainably to avoid shortages and pollution.
Bear in mind that as a household customer in the UK you don't have the option to change your water supplier as you do with gas or electricity. Current legislation means your water supplier is simply determined by which area you live in. That said, the price of water in the UK is still relatively cheap compared to some European countries.
According to 2020 data from European Association of Urban Water Cycle Managers , quoted by Smart Water magazine, the average price in the UK was €3.50 per metre cubed, whereas in Denmark it was as high as €9.32.
So what are the best ways of saving?
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