Yorkshire Water urges customers to use water wisely during heatwave

Yorkshire Water is urging customers to use water wisely as temperatures across the country climb above 30 degrees, driving a significant increase in demand for drinking water.

With more people filling paddling pools, watering gardens and taking extra showers during the hot spell, demand for water has risen sharply across the region.

Demand on Tuesday June 23 hit 1.485 billion litres –150 million litres higher than the average for this time of year, with the extra being enough to supply a city the size of Leeds for a day.

Yorkshire Water is estimating demand to peak later in the week and is expecting to distribute 1.49 billion litres on the hottest day of the heatwave.

Teams are working around the clock to maintain supplies and move water around the network to areas experiencing the highest demand.

Andy Shaw, Head of Water Production at Yorkshire Water, said: “With temperatures climbing people will understandably be making the most of the sunshine, and with an increase in temperature we see increased water demand.

“Small changes by everyone can make a big difference and help save thousands of litres of water.

“Simple actions such as using a watering can instead of a hosepipe, watering plants in the morning or evening rather than in the heat of the day, waiting until washing machines and dishwashers are full before putting them on, and turning off the tap while brushing teeth can all play a vital role in helping to protect resources.”

Customers are being reminded that every drop counts and are being encouraged to use water wisely while enjoying the warm weather.

Using a watering can instead of hosepipe where possible.

Only running washing machines and dishwashers with full loads.

Turn the tap off when brushing your teeth.

Fixing dripping taps and leaks

Reusing water from paddling pools to water plants.