Irish Water has contacted Laois County Councillors urging people to choose handwashing over powerwashing as domestic water usage increases by an average of 20% in homes across the country.
“With people adhereing to government advice and staying at home since mid-March in responce to the Covid-19 crisis, Irish Water has confirmed that there has been a significant increase in household water usage,” they said in a statement.
“New domestic metering data has revealed that households are using an additional 24 litres of water per person per day, a 20% increase from February.
“This is in line with water utilities in the UK who have reported a similar increase.”
The letter explains that non-domestic water usage has decreased “with many businesses, construction sites, schools, colleges, gyms, hotels, bars and restaurants temporarily closed”.
“This reduction in demand has helped to off-set some of the domestic demand, however as domestic demand represents two thirds of our business, our water supply is under pressure.”
The letter goes on to say that commercial premises will need to use extra water to clean and flush their plumbing systems and storage tanks or to complete deep cleans when the Government restrictions are lifted.
“As water treatment plants are already working to their maximum capacity, Irish Water is appealing to the Laois public to prioritise handwashing over powerwashing and conserve water now where they can, so that together we can meet the increased demands on our network when restrictions are relaxed for businesses.
“There are some simple measures that the public can take including stopping the use of powerwashers at home; using a watering can rather than a hose in the garden; taking showers over baths; and fixing any dripping taps where it is possible to do so.”
“It is really important that everyone follows the HSE guidance on handwashing, however there are some ways to conserve water that will not impact on hygiene.”
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