South West Water businesses to benefit from new scheme

Tourism businesses can save water and cut costs with the launch of a new scheme by South West Water.

Exeter bed &breakfast, The Silversprings Hotel, is the first business in the region to gain the top exceptional grade in this new scheme after slashing its water use by 25% following a free water audit.

Water use at the 10 bedroom hotel has fallen from over 200 to less than 150 litres per guest per day after the installation of dual flush toilets, a new low consumption washing machine and the fitting of flow restrictors to basin taps and high pressure showers.

Owner Richard Power, has also learned how to accurately monitor their water use as well as setting up a rainwater collection system and automated drip irrigation on the hotel's patio for its plants.

He said: "We have found the Water Efficiency Certificate to be an excellent way for us to focus upon eliminating waste of water in a directly measurable manner. The target requirements for each level are specifically defined, and SWW have been most proactive in helping us to achieve these standards through free audits, detailed advice and encouragement to make the changes. We have found these changes to be quick, easy and interesting to implement and have very rapid payback times."

SWW Water Conservation Team Leader Jon Wood said: "The hotel is a great example of how a business can save water and money with some free advice and making just a few changes.

"We hope many more businesses across the region will make a commitment to saving water and take pride in displaying their Water Efficiency certificates."

The certificates are awarded at three levels: Exceptional, Comprehensive and Basic.

Businesses can learn more about the scheme by phoning the Water Conservation Team at South West Water on: 01392 443 946.