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It can be terrifying to hear household bills dropping through the letter box – especially if you’re already struggling financially.

To take some of the fear out of paying your water bills we’re sharing some ghoulishly good tricks to save money.

Slash your bills with a water meter

One of the most effective ways for many households to save is by switching to a water meter. Installation doesn’t cost a penny and some customers find they can save around £100 a year. In particular, if you have more bedrooms than people living in your property, then it’s likely you could be better off with a meter. Try our easy to use water meter calculator to see how much you might save. And remember – you can usually trial a water meter for up to 2 years and switch back if you’re unhappy.

Don’t be scared to reach out for help

Paying bills is an even scarier prospect when you’re on a low income, but water companies have schemes designed to help these cash-strapped households. Social tariffs can reduce bills by as much as 90 per cent in some cases. See if you might be eligible.

If you’re a metered customer, receiving benefits and also use a lot of water due to a medical condition or because you have a large family, you may also qualify for help. WaterSure opens in new window caps the amount you are charged each year.

Saving doesn’t need to be a nightmare

If you’re a metered customer, then cutting back on water waste can also help you reduce your bill. If you want to save water but aren’t sure where to start, why not speak to your water company about the free water-saving devices it can offer. From shower timers to little gadgets that can help you save when you flush your toilet opens in new window, there are lots of great freebies to soak up.

Keep an eye out for hair-raising increases

Always take the time to look at your bill and compare it over time, this way if there are any unexplained rises you’ll be able to identify and resolve any potential causes, such as a leak, quickly.

Are you paying for phantom services?

Are you paying for a service you don’t receive? Did you know that if you have a soak-away, which drains all the rainwater from your property into the ground, you can apply to have surface water drainage charges removed from your bills? This could typically save about £35 a year.

If you have a septic tank, instead of a connection to the sewerage system, you shouldn’t be paying any sewerage charges.

If you think you may be paying for a service you aren’t receiving, contact your water company for more information.