Save Water This Summer: Smart Plumbing Tips

As temperatures rise and water usage increases, summer is the perfect time to think about how we can all be a bit smarter with our plumbing. At Collister and Glover, we know that many of our customers are looking for practical ways to reduce water waste, lower bills, and do their bit for the environment.

Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord or tradesperson, these summer-specific plumbing tips will help you make the most of your system while keeping water usage efficient.

Check for Hidden Leaks

Even a small, unnoticed leak can waste thousands of litres of water over time. During the summer, outdoor taps, hose connections and irrigation systems are often put under more pressure. Look out for:

Damp patches around taps or joints
A drop in water pressure
An unexpected increase in your water bill

A quick inspection now could save a costly repair later.

Fit Tap Aerators

Tap aerators are a simple but effective way to reduce water usage without sacrificing pressure. They introduce air into the water stream, which helps reduce the flow rate while maintaining the feel of a strong flow. They're especially useful in kitchens and bathrooms, where water is used frequently.

Upgrade to a Water-Efficient Shower Head

Standard shower heads can use as much as 15 litres of water per minute. A water-efficient model can cut that by half. If you're using an electric shower or regularly showering after being outdoors, switching to a more efficient shower head could lead to significant savings over the summer.

Use a Water Butt for Garden Watering

Many households use hosepipes or sprinklers during dry spells, which can be incredibly water intensive. Installing a water butt to collect rainwater is a great way to water your garden sustainably. Connect it to a downpipe and use a simple tap attachment to fill your watering can. It’s cost-effective and better for your plants too.

Insulate Exposed Outdoor Pipes

Although pipe insulation is often associated with winter, it has summer benefits too. Keeping pipes cool helps maintain consistent pressure and avoids unnecessary expansion from direct sunlight. It also protects outdoor plumbing from damage during heavy summer use.

Educate Your Household or Customers

If you're a landlord or tradesperson, passing these tips on to your tenants or clients can go a long way. Encouraging awareness and small daily changes, such as turning the tap off while brushing teeth or fixing dripping taps quickly, can lead to long-term water and cost savings.

Why It Matters

With the rising demand for water during warmer months, small changes really do add up. At Collister and Glover, we believe in providing more than just products, we aim to support our customers with expert advice that’s practical, local, and sustainable.

If you’re looking for parts, tools or guidance on how to make your plumbing system more efficient this summer, our team is always here to help.