Water and dry weather update
More people use water in their homes and gardens when the weather is really hot. In fact, during the record-breaking heatwave in June, we saw water use at 3 billion litres a day.
At times, we're using water faster than we can deliver it through our network. We're working around the clock to manage this, moving water to where it's needed and fixing leaks as quickly as possible. Reducing your use at home, especially outdoors, will make the biggest difference. So we're asking customers not to use hosepipes or sprinklers during heatwaves. This will help us make sure everyone gets enough water for essential use.
Did you know a hose or sprinkler can use up to 1,000 litres of water per hour? That's the same as 25 people taking a 4-minute shower.
This spring was drier than usual, with much lower rainfall in our region. April had only 20% of the average rain we expect. May and June also saw record-breaking temperatures in London and the South East.
What we're doing
We’re carefully managing water supplies across our networks. This includes:
- Investing£20billion
- Our biggest upgrade in150years
- Fixing leaks100sper week
What you can do
There are lots of easy ways to reduce your water use, even when it’s hot.
In the garden and outdoors
- Water your plants early morning or late evening
- Grass recovers quickly, so let your lawns go golden
- Use leftover padding pool water or washing-up water for plants
- Swap the hose for a watering can
Around the home
- Cool down without running water. Keep a jug of cold water in the fridge instead of running the tap
- Delay activities like washing the car until the hottest days have passed. Even then, use a bucket instead of a hose!
- Use the eco setting on your washing machine and dishwasher
Online tools to help you save water
Our tools can help you reduce your water use and lower your bills.
Water saving calculator
See how much water you're using with our calculator.
Greenredeem
Get rewards for saving water at home.
Saving water matters
We all use more water when it’s hot. But after such a hot and dry spring, we all need to do our bit and use less water.
We're closely monitoring weather, rivers, groundwater and our reservoirs so we can move and store water responsibly. Small changes at home can also make a big difference.
Find out more about reservoirs, groundwater, and water saving tips.
Where our water comes from
Find out more about our reservoir and rainfall levels.
Hot weather and groundwater
Our video explains what happens to groundwater in hot and dry weather.
What you can do to help
Even small changes can make a difference.