Farmers across Northern Ireland have been issued a reminder on how best to save money on their next water bill.

Regional utility NI Water has advised farmers to check meters on a regular basis as spring approaches and the supplies to field troughs will be getting used again.

Gary Curran, NI Water's Head of Metering and Billing, said: "Over 60% of NI Water's non domestic customers are farms. Water is the single most important requirement for livestock. On a dairy farm, livestock drinking water may account for between 50% and 75% of the farm's water usage so it makes sense to look after it. The farming community can look after their water supply by checking out these tips."

-- Advertisement --

NI Water's tips to farmers are as follows:

• Ensure that you have good understanding of the layout of pipework within your land and keep a map of the line of this pipework;

• Have a supply of the relevant fittings to repair any leakages;

• Know where your meters are located (NI Water will help you to do this) and check them on a regular basis. A higher reading may indicate a leak which should be located and repaired as quickly as possible to reduce your water bills.

• Inspect remote troughs which may not be used at this time of year, particularly the exposed pipe leading into the trough; if cattle are inside consider installing a stop valve for the trough (or field) so you turn off the supply. Consider draining troughs;

• Where practical ensure all underground pipes are buried 750 millimetres (2½ feet) below ground level.

• Fix dripping taps

• Know where your stop valves are located; NI Water can provide stop valve tags. You can request these by emailing [email protected]

• Another way of saving water around the farm is simply collecting or 'harvesting' rainwater. This could be as simple as having a water butt. Rainwater can be used as an alternative water supply, for example in washing vehicles, washing windows and watering plants.

(CM/JG)