Water is always a precious resource and we encourage our customers to use it wisely, whatever the weather. This helps to keep customer bills down and protects the environment.

Our total reservoir storage is 78.4% compared to 74.3% at this time last year. Levels in our smaller, local reservoirs reflect the ongoing lack of rainfall and increased demand for water but we are closely monitoring the situation and supplementing these sources using our three largest, strategic reservoirs – Wimbleball, Roadford and Colliford. This is normal operating practice.

Rob Scarrott, Head of Environment, said: “We’re still working hard behind the scenes to meet the increased demand for water during the prolonged hot weather.

“While demand is still higher than normal for this time of year, we have seen a slight reduction in consumption over the last week and we would like to thank customers who have been using water wisely.

“With the hot weather set to stay for a while, everyone can do their bit and save money by being water wise, particularly in the garden, which typically accounts for much of the additional demand we see during hot weather.”

The company is sharing its top tips for saving water in the garden and the home, which also saves money for customers on a meter:

In the garden:

• Use a watering can instead of a hose
• If your garden needs watering, do so early morning or evening to reduce evaporation
• Use a bucket and sponge instead of a hose to clean your car (or leave it for another week – it’s only going to get dusty!)
• Use any remaining water from your water butt first

In the home:

• Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth
• Keep a jug of water in the fridge so you don’t have to run your tap cold
• Use a bowl for washing up / rinsing fruit and veg – then use this water for plants   
• Have a shower instead of a bath
• Only use your dishwasher or washing machine when you have a full load (this will save money on your energy bills too)
• Only fill the kettle with as much water as you need (this will save energy too)
• Fix leaking taps and toilets

See website for information: https://www.southwestwater.co.uk/water-advice-and-services/start-saving-water-today/ and https://www.southwestwater.co.uk/reservoirlevels