Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water operates a comprehensive water efficiency programme, offering free water-saving products and in-home visits to eligible customers. This initiative, known as Cartref, aims to help households reduce water consumption, lower energy bills, and minimise environmental impact. The programme is specifically designed for customers within the Welsh Water service area and provides a range of tangible resources to support water conservation efforts.
The core of the programme involves a free water efficiency home visit. During this visit, a qualified Welsh Water inspector conducts a thorough audit of the household’s water usage points, including taps, toilets, and showers. The inspector is trained to identify opportunities for water-saving improvements and is authorised to fit suitable free water efficiency products on-site. These products include showerheads, shower flow restrictors, shower timers, tap aerators, save-a-flush bags, and hosepipe guns. The visit also includes personalised advice on how to make small changes that can lead to significant savings on household bills and reduced environmental impact.
For customers who prefer not to have a home visit, an alternative option is available. Welsh Water provides an online platform where customers can complete a dashboard to assess their water usage. Once the dashboard is complete, customers can order free water-saving products specific to their needs. The available products through this online portal include flow-regulating shower heads, which reduce water usage to 8 litres per minute without compromising pressure, and 4-minute shower timers to help reduce shower time. Tap aerators are also available, which can be added to most taps to mix air with water, potentially saving up to half the water used. The online platform also features a wide array of water-saving tips and advice.
Eligibility for these free products and services is restricted to customers within the Welsh Water catchment area. The online store uses a postcode database to localise the offering, ensuring that only customers in the Welsh Water service area can benefit from the free items. This geographical restriction is a key eligibility criterion for the programme.
Welsh Water has implemented security measures to protect customers from bogus callers. When an inspector visits, they will always carry an ID card. Customers are advised to follow the "3C's" rule: Card, Check, and Call. If unsure, customers can contact the Bogus Caller Helpline on 0800 281 141. For added security, a password can be arranged for visits.
The programme emphasises the connection between water and energy use. Approximately 12% of a typical energy bill is attributed to heating water. By reducing water wastage, particularly through shorter showers or more efficient fixtures, households can save on both water and energy costs. For example, cutting down on showering time with an electric shower could save over £100 per year.