In these unprecedented times, it’s never been more important for businesses to be in control of their costs as much as possible.
Whether you’re an essential business operating as usual, or you’ve now closed following government guidance, our experts give their top tips on managing your business water supply.
1: Become more water-efficient
Installation of the following water-efficient equipment could save your business both commercially and environmentally.
· Self-closing or ‘push’ taps
A push tap will limit waste as well as limit the chances of flooding. They are easy and cost-effective to install. Lowered usage will also result in reduced expenditure.
· Automated urinal controls
These automatic systems use sensors to flush individual urinals after use. As an example, with a relatively low initial outlay of £350, savings of over £3,800 per year can be achieved, which is a return of investment (ROI) of five weeks (based on 100 people working 260 hours a day).
· Tap flow restrictors
These are fitted to your taps and simply put, limit the amount of water flow. With a tap flow restrictor, you can save 1,274 litres of water every month.
· Toilet cistern displacers
Flushing toilets can account for up to 75% of water usage in the WCs of businesses so by installing displacers you can instantly cut the amount of water being used when flushing.
2: Regularly monitor your water use
If, like many businesses in the UK, you’re now closed it’s vitally important that you continue to regularly monitor your water metres and bills.
If the business is closed, this should be reflected in your usage. By comparing your current use with that of previous months, you will be able to spot any anomalies and water waste. If you’re seeing your water spend increase, this could indicate that there is a leak on the premises.
If your business is now closed, you should consider manually disabling your supply to ensure water is not being used when you are closed. Again, this will limit the risk of flooding.
3: Switch water supplier
As of April 2017, the English water market deregulated allowing non-domestic customers to change their water retailer. As a result, competition was introduced to the market allowing businesses to achieve savings if they switched.
With the help of a Cost-Saving Consultant the water switching process can be achieved quickly, allowing your business to benefit from instant savings.
4: Educate staff on reducing water waste
If you fall into the essential business category, you are likely to have staff still working on the premises. And, whilst it’s vital you continue to practice the recommended hand-hygiene measures, there are things that can be done to reduce waste.
Visit our Business Advice Hub more helpful info.