Efficient taps in sinks and basins

A quarter of water in homes is used in sinks and basins. Repair dripping taps and fit spray tap inserts to stop wasting water and energy.

• Stop drips from taps — its a fairly easy DIY job to replace the washer or ceramic disc. If you’d rather call in the professionals find a registered plumber at www.clescotland.co.uk.
   

• Spray tap inserts can help you to use only the water you need - you don’t need the full flow to rinse plates, clean your teeth or wash your hands. Its an easy DIY job.

Savings

Replacement washers cost a few pence. A tap that drips once a second wastes 33 litres a day — in a year that’s enough for 446 showers! A dripping hot tap wastes enough hot water in a week to fill half a bath.

Spray tap inserts cost less than £5. Manufacturers claim they can reduce your use of water in sinks and basins by 50-70%.

Stopping drips and fitting spray taps can save you money if you have a water meter. No figures are available for energy or CO2 savings but saving water will make a difference.