People have been spending more time at home over the last two years. As a result, we’ve seen a pretty substantial increase in-home water use. But while you might understandably believe water use would be much higher during the balmy summer months, it’s just as easy to get carried away over the festive season.

So, to help you save money and give the environment a little respite this Christmas, here are some of our top tips for cutting your water bill over the winter months.

Keep showers brisk

Did you know that about 20% of the energy used in the UK is for heating up water? This is because we are a nation of bathers and like to spend more than a few minutes in the shower. We know a good long hot shower can be relaxing but realistically you can achieve all you need to do in five minutes. Maybe reward yourself with a long shower at the weekend, rather than indulging in one every morning? Oh, and it should go without saying that baths are wasteful. Indeed, you’ll save around 30 litres of water on average by having a shower over a bath.

Measure your cuppas

We all like to keep ourselves warm and awake with a few cups of tea a day during the winter months but that doesn’t mean we have to fill our kettles up to the brim every time. Only fill your kettle with the amount of water you’ll actually be using. And if you have any left, perhaps consider putting it in a hot water bottle or a flask for later?

Don’t throw water down the sink

If you have any water left from your hot water bottles or perhaps dirty water that the dogs neglected to drink, don’t just check it down the drain. Some plants still need to be watered in the winter months, after all.

Check your pipes

A burst pipe could cost thousands to fix and you’ll be losing water while waiting for the plumber. To ensure your pipes don’t freeze and burst over the winter, insulate all exposed pipes and keep the heating at a steady temperature, even if you‘re leaving the house for a few days.

Improve your drinking water

By installing a water softener or water filter in your kitchen you’ll be ensuring every drop of tap water is as clear and drinkable as mountain spring water. Also, rather than running the tap until the hot water turns to cold and wasting water in the interim, fill a filter jug with it and put it in the fridge. The filter will get rid of any particulates or chemicals and you’ll have lovely cold water ready to go at all times.

Fill the dishwasher and washing machine

Running the dishwasher or washing machine when they are not as full as possible is going to waste a lot of water in the long term. Of course, there is a fine balance, as if you fill them too much nothing will get properly cleaned. But you should at least be hitting just below maximum capacity with every wash if you want to make the most of your water supply.

By taking note of these tips and remaining actively aware of your water use, you should be able to survive the winter without spending a small fortune. And many of these same hacks still work in the spring and summer months too so don’t switch off those senses when the sun comes out!