United Utilities urges Tameside residents to save water as temperatures rise

With temperatures expected to climb across the region this week, United Utilities is calling on residents in Greater Manchester and the Pennines to help protect vital water supplies by being more mindful of their water use.

The North West’s main water provider has highlighted growing concerns as regional reservoir levels dip to 59% - well below the seasonal average of 73%. Warmer weather often leads to a sharp rise in water usage, with demand increasing by around 70 million litres per day as households turn to hosepipes, sprinklers, and paddling pools.

In response, United Utilities is stepping up its efforts to encourage water efficiency. Free home water efficiency audits are being offered in parts of Greater Manchester and the Pennines, with more than 3,700 already booked. These visits help customers identify ways to reduce water use and check for leaks.

In total, the company has carried out over 7,000 water efficiency audits across both homes and businesses, including farms. It is also working closely with Network Rail and schools to raise awareness and promote long-term water-saving habits.

Customer engagement is playing a key role, with a significant 200% rise in public reports of leaks over the past 90 days. This increased vigilance is helping United Utilities teams locate and repair more than 800 leaks each week, as they continue their work to preserve supplies during the hotter months.

As temperatures continue to rise, the company is reminding everyone across Tameside and beyond that small changes, like turning off taps while brushing teeth or using a watering can instead of a hose, can make a big difference in protecting water supplies for everyone.

Grant Batty, Water Services Director at United Utilities, said: “We want to thank our customers for everything they have been doing to help protect water supplies and we’re asking them to continue to do their bit.

“74% of customers are aware of the impact of dry weather on water resources, and we have seen a fantastic response from customers with increased leak reporting and a reduction in demand.

“In some areas we’ve seen a great response to free home water audits, which helps customers to take practical steps such as fixing leaky loos to save water and money on their bills.

“We are working hard to carefully manage our water resources through our vast integrated network of pipes to move water around from one part of the region to another, where it is needed and will continue to monitor the situation daily to ensure we manage and balance the water needs of people and the environment in the best possible way.”

Water efficiency audits can be booked at Free water saving visits | United Utilities and tips on how to save water at home and in the garden are available at Reduce your water bill.