Saving Water Week

15 June 2011 15:20

Sunday 19th of June is Father’s day, and hundreds of kids will be carrying out little chores for their special dad. Just don’t forget to stay ‘water wise’ when doing those important tasks like washing the car with a bucket and sponge instead of a hose!

Saving Water Week runs throughout the week of the 12th June and NI Water is asking customers to help save water by looking at everyday habits and seeing where they can be changed. Father’s day is a day where daddies all over the country have a day off from chores and (hopefully) when their children step up to help them.

So, if you are washing the car, why not use a bucket and sponge instead of a hose. If you are making dad a cup of tea, only fill the kettle with the amount of water needed and if you are doing the washing up (clothes or dishes) make sure you put on a full load.

NI Water’s Water Efficiency Champion, Celine Rodgers, explains:
“NI Water takes pride in delivering one of Northern Ireland’s most essential services and last year delivered over 632 million litres of water each day to customers. At peak times this was as high as 860 million litres a day so demand is increasing.

“NI Water continually monitors levels in reservoirs and takes steps to maximise water storage. However, we need our customers to be ‘water wise’ this Fathers Day and realise the importance of conserving water. The public can play a vital part by reducing demand for water and avoiding wastage by following some of NI Water’s helpful tips:

Ӣ Using dishwater to water plants;
Ӣ Using watering cans around the garden instead of hosepipes and sprinklers;
Ӣ Filling a jug of water and placing it in the fridge to cool;
Ӣ Using buckets to wash the car instead of a hosepipe;
Ӣ Not leaving taps running longer than necessary, for example when brushing teeth or washing vegetables; and
Ӣ Mend leaking taps - taps that drip once a second, result in the loss of 33 litres of water a day.

Graham Smith, from the Consumer Council said: "The Consumer Council supports NI Water in encouraging everyone to think about how they can save water. Many people don't realise they use as much as 150 litres of water a day, much of which is wasted. Using water wisely has many benefits, not only for the environment but also by lowering energy bills as around a quarter of a household’s energy bill comes from using hot water. Small changes in how you use water can really make a difference in saving water, energy and money."

Customers can also log onto our Youtube channel:www.youtube.com/northernirelandwater to view NI Water’s video demonstrating ways to save water around the home and garden.

NI Water is continuing to reduce leakage from its pipework, however, we would ask for the ongoing support of customers. You are our eyes and ears, if you see a leak, please report it to Leakline 0800 282011 or Waterline 08457 440088.