Thames Water will shortly begin to roll out its smart water meters programme  to households across Epping Forest.

Smart meters will soon be putting local in control of their water use, helping them to make simple money-saving choices at home.

Population growth and climate change are placing increasing pressures on water resources. The aim of Thames Water’s smart metering programme is to educate customers on water use and improve leakage detection.

The water company said that by providing clear usage information online, via regular comparison letters, or over the phone, the meters highlight how efficient a home is and how simple water saving efforts can reduce bills. 

The meters can also help locate leaks on customers supply pipes by quickly identifying where there is always water flowing through the meter, suggesting there is likely to be a leak. 

Mark Cooper, Thames Water’s head of metering said:

“Our smart meters are already saving millions of litres across London and we’ll be doing the same across Epping Forest. This is good news for customers, who will be in control of their water bills, and great news for the environment given increasing pressures upon water resources.

“With our meters providing accurate and up to date data on water use, higher or unusual readings could indicate a leak on a customer’s pipe, which can be pinpointed and fixed faster to stop water from being water wasted.”

Thames Water is also offering free home visits, where experts can advise how water efficient a house is and on the installation of water saving freebies such as aerating taps and shower heads, and dual flush toilet adapters.

According to the utility, after a visit, a family of four could save as much as £180 a year on their water and energy bills, as heating water accounts for 21 per cent of an average energy bill.

Households will have a comparison period to understand and reduce their usage, before being moved onto a metered bill, unless customers’ choose to switch early to cash in on the savings.