Should you get a water meter?
Sep 6, 2023
Water is the forgotten utility and many people think they can't make savings. However, consumer website Money Saving Expert (MSE), founded by financial expert Martin Lewis, points to the fact that some households have ‘slashed £100s off their bills’ by fitting water meters and cutting down on how much they use.
Meters allow households to pay their bills on the actual amount of water use instead of a fixed rate. Taking the plunge may be financially beneficial if you do not use that much water and if your property has a high rateable value (Council Tax).
HOW MUCH CAN CHISWICK HOUSEHOLDS SAVE?
The Consumer Council for Water has a free water meter calculator that tells you if you can save. Answer questions about your water use – for example, how many in the household, the number of showers per week, your dishwasher use and your current bills – then estimates your costs with a meter.
For a more accurate (albeit time-consuming comparison) use the Thames Water free calculator, which works out your estimated costs if you have a meter. This is the best indicator of whether you will save.
Since 1990, all new homes have been fitted with water meters but any household can get one installed for free on request. They are usually fitted outside a property. Most water companies have a two-year opt-in policy, so you can see if it works out better for you and refuse a meter if you find it more costly.
THAMES WATER BILLS
You can't switch water companies in the same way you can switch other utility suppliers but you can still save, according to MSE, especially since bills are often subject to annual price rises. Every April, water companies assess and change their rates.
Thames Water bills increased by 9% in April 2023, a change of £39 a year on a typical bill. Charges across England and Wales rose by an average of 7.5% or £31 a year on a typical bill.
Londoners are assured that Thames Water will install 'smart meters' which allow bill payers to view up-to-date information about the household's water use online.
Martin Lewis: "If there are more bedrooms in your home than people, or the same number, check out getting a meter. It’s worth knowing that most have up to two years to change back free of charge – so if it doesn't work out, ditch it."
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