WELSH residents have used up to 25 per cent more water in 2020, according to data.

Welsh Water, the largest water company in Wales, examined their meter readings over the year to find the increase in usage which is largely due to more people spending more time at home.

The not-for-profit water company has urged its customers to form new habits for 2021 in a bid to use water more sparingly and to save themselves money.

Many households have been using small amounts of water much more frequently for things like hand washing, using the toilet, and using everyday appliances like the washing machine, dishwasher, or kettle.

Samantha James, managing director of household customer services at Welsh Water, said: “It’s always a good idea to practise good habits when it comes to water.

"Water really is precious and there’s no better time than a new year to decide to make some small changes that can have a big impact.

"We encourage all of our customers to use water wisely in 2021 and really make every drop count.”

For advice on how to save water, money and time at home, visit https://www.dwrcymru.com/en/help-advice/water-saving-tips-for-households.