Sunday 22 March 2026
The Horsham District has been categorised by the Environment Agency as a seriously water-stressed area because the demand for water can sometimes outstrip the supply available. Climate change contributes to this due to there being more frequent hotter, drier summers which places increased pressure on water supplies. Conversely, whilst the UK has been having one of the wettest winters on record this year, heavy rainfall doesn’t automatically replenish the groundwater and reservoir systems that supply our taps; much of the very heavy rain runs off quickly into rivers and seas, especially in built up areas with hard surfaces.
Monday 22 March is United Nations’ World Water Day and to mark the occasion we are sharing some tips on how you can reduce your water consumption.
The average UK household uses around 146 litres of water per person every day. If you are on a water meter reducing your water usage can help you save money on your water bills, but did you know reducing your water consumption can also save money on your energy bills? In fact about 12% of a typical gas-heated household’s energy bill is from heating water for showers, baths, and hot water from the tap. Water also has a carbon footprint from the energy needed to treat it and pump it to homes and businesses.
Here are a few suggestions on how you can save water and water-related energy in the home:
In the kitchen
When making a cup of tea, only boil the water you need, or of you regularly make hot drinks, boil a full kettle just the once and keep the hot water in a thermos, ready for your next drink. Keep a bottle of tap water in the fridge if you like a cold drink, to save running the tap waiting for the water to cool down. Modern dishwashers with a full load are typically more water efficient than handwashing dishes. And be mindful of drips, as these can quickly accumulate to a lot of water and wastes both water and energy.
In the bathroom
Run taps for shorter times, such as turning them off when you brush your teeth. Try shortening your shower. The average 10-minute shower uses 50-75 gallons of water, so even reducing your shower time by just a few minutes can save gallons each time. To save energy on heating water, consider reducing the water temperature of your shower as well. In addition to having a positive environmental impact, cooler showers can lead to improved circulation, softer, smoother skin, and shinier hair.
In the garden
Adding a water butt to collect rainwater can reduce your reliance on mains water. Using a watering can rather than a hosepipe can help you better manage your water usage. Also consider the types of plants you are growing, as drought-resistant varieties will require less watering and do better in hot dry summers.
Find out more
- To find out more about your household water usage we recommend Waterwise’s free water saving calculator. In just a few clicks you can find out how much water you use, what it costs, its impact on the environment, and how small changes can lead to big savings.
- To read about climate actions taking place across the District, and to be part of the conversation on how we can all be more sustainable, be sure to follow our new Facebook page A Sustainable Horsham District.
- You may also like to sign up to our Climate and Environment monthly e-newsletter where we share with you how Horsham District Council and our partners and communities across the District are working to reduce carbon emissions, enhance habitats and support biodiversity and the local environment.