How to save money on water bills in the UK

Your water bill is changing - here is how to stay in control

Water bills are set to rise across England and Wales, with the national average expected to reach about £603 in 2025 to 2026. That is a jump of roughly £123, or 26 percent, compared with this year. Some areas will see even bigger increases. Southern Water customers could pay around £703 on average, up 47 percent, while Thames Water bills may rise 31 percent to about £639. These higher charges are linked to a major programme of investment aimed at improving infrastructure, cutting leaks and cleaning up rivers.

We cannot switch water supplier like we can with energy, so the focus is on paying fairly for what you use and reducing wastage. The good news is that there are proven ways to lower costs without compromising your quality of life. A free water meter can be a game changer for many homes. Newer homes already use less water thanks to efficient fittings. And simple daily habits can trim usage in bathrooms, kitchens and gardens.

This guide walks you through practical steps, what to expect by region, and how to get support if you are struggling. It is clear, calm advice you can act on today.

Small changes at the tap can lead to big savings on the bill.

Who will benefit from this guide

If you pay a water bill in Great Britain, this is for you. It is especially helpful if your home has more bedrooms than people living in it, if you are in a region facing larger price rises, or if you want to understand metering and support options with confidence.

What is happening with water bills

Across England and Wales, average combined water and sewerage bills are set to climb by around 26 percent in 2025 to 2026, taking a typical annual bill to about £603. The picture varies by provider. Southern Water is forecast to see the steepest jump to roughly £703. Thames Water customers may pay around £639. Elsewhere, Anglian Water could reach about £626, Welsh Water near £639, and Wessex Water around £669. Some water-only companies have different averages. Portsmouth Water is expected near £150, while SES Water stands out with a small reduction to about £249.

These changes are part of a wider five-year plan, with bills projected to rise by around £157 on average between 2024 to 2025 and 2029 to 2030, before any further inflation. The aim is to fund upgrades that reduce leakage and improve water quality. While investment is essential, it means households need to plan ahead and look for savings that do not compromise everyday comfort.

Knowing your baseline helps. The typical UK household uses about 150 litres per person per day. New build homes average nearer 110 litres, showing how efficient fittings and mindful habits translate into lower bills.

How to cut your costs step by step

Start by checking whether a free water meter would work for you. As a rule of thumb, if your home has more bedrooms than people, paying for what you use is often cheaper than a fixed unmetered rate. In England and Wales, most households can apply for a meter from their water company at no installation charge, and many providers offer a trial period so you can switch back if it is not beneficial.

Next, target the rooms that use the most water. Bathrooms typically account for the biggest share, followed by the kitchen and then the garden. Fit a low-flow shower head, use dual-flush toilets correctly, and fix dripping taps promptly. Wash full loads in the dishwasher and washing machine, and choose eco cycles. Outside, use a water butt, water early or late to reduce evaporation, and consider drought-friendly plants.

• Next steps to take this week:
  • Request a free meter from your supplier if eligible.
  • Order free or low-cost water-saving kits from your provider.
  • Check for leaks using your stop tap and meter reading.
  • Set a shower timer for 4 to 5 minutes.
  • Review your provider’s social tariff and support schemes.

Why these actions work

Meters align your bill with your actual usage, so you stop paying for an assumed average that may not reflect your household. Larger homes with fewer occupants often see the biggest savings, sometimes hundreds of pounds a year. Efficient fixtures reduce the flow at the point of use, which adds up across showers, toilets and taps. Newer homes show what is possible in practice: using around 110 litres per person per day compared with 150 in older properties. That is roughly a 27 percent cut, translating to an average bill near £347 versus £473.

On top of direct savings, lowering usage helps relieve pressure on local networks, reduces the risk of restrictions in dry spells, and supports environmental goals. With long-term bill increases expected over the next five years, the changes you make now can cushion future rises and create steady, predictable savings season after season.

Pros and cons of common water-saving moves

Pitfalls to avoid

Check your provider’s rules before installing a meter in flats or shared supplies, as consent from neighbours or the freeholder may be required. After metering, keep an eye on usage so your direct debit reflects real consumption and does not drift too low or too high. Be mindful that some efficiency gadgets can feel underpowered if you buy very cheap versions, so opt for trusted brands or freebies from your water company. If you live in an area seeing higher price rises, such as Southern or Thames regions, budgeting ahead is wise because bills can vary by season and by your sewerage arrangements. Finally, do not delay seeking help if you are struggling. Many companies have expanded support, including social tariffs, payment plans and hardship funds, but you need to apply.

Other ways to reduce costs

1. Shorten showers to 4 to 5 minutes and turn off taps while brushing teeth.
2. Switch to dual-flush toilets or fit cistern displacement devices.
3. Use a washing-up bowl and scrape plates instead of pre-rinsing under a running tap.
4. Collect cool water while waiting for hot, then use it for plants or pets.
5. Insulate hot water pipes to get hot water faster and waste less.
6. Choose drought-tolerant plants and mulch beds to reduce watering.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if a water meter will save me money? If your home has more bedrooms than people, a meter is often cheaper. Ask your provider for a free water calculator and consider the trial period many offer.

Can I switch water supplier to get a better deal? Not for domestic customers. You cannot switch suppliers, but you can switch to a meter, change habits, and apply for support schemes to reduce what you pay.

What help is available if I cannot afford my bill? Water companies have expanded support, including social tariffs, payment plans and bill reductions for eligible customers. Contact your provider and ask about their hardship options.

How much water does a typical person in the UK use daily? Around 150 litres per person per day in most homes. Newer homes average about 110 litres thanks to efficient fixtures and metering.

Are regional bill rises the same everywhere? No. For example, Southern Water is forecast to rise to about £703 on average and Thames to around £639, while other regions vary. Always check your supplier’s latest figures.

How Switcha fits into your plan

At Switcha, our goal is to help you spend less on the essentials. While you cannot switch water supplier, you can still take control. We guide you through whether a free meter makes sense for your home, help you estimate savings based on bedrooms, occupancy and usage, and point you to your provider’s application page. We also curate practical water-saving kits and share tested tips that work in UK bathrooms, kitchens and gardens. If money is tight, we signpost social tariffs, priority services and payment support so you can get relief quickly and confidently. Clear steps, plain English, and no pressure - just the information you need to make decisions that protect your household budget.

Try this today: apply for a free water meter and set a 5-minute shower timer.

Important information

This guide offers general information, not personal advice. Water bills and savings vary by provider, home type and usage. Always check details with your water company before making changes. If you are struggling with bills, contact your provider for support immediately.