Water Conservation called for in parts of Westmeath Amid Growing Demand

Information below is relevant until further updates are provided here or on our Supply and Service Updates section

Uisce Éireann is urging customers across Westmeath to use water wisely as demand for treated water continues to rise during the current spell of warm weather. Uisce Éireann are actively monitoring the network, managing water resources, repairing leaks and implementing targeted measures to protect supplies where needed.

Although raw water sources remain at healthy levels, the sustained warm weather has significantly increased water usage. This means treated water is being used faster than it can be produced and replenished in local reservoirs, placing additional pressure on the network. 

Customers can help by making simple changes to their daily water use. Small actions taken at home, in businesses and across communities can make a meaningful difference, helping reservoirs recover and ensuring a reliable supply for everyone.

Overnight restrictions are in place for customers supplied by the Ballany Reservoir. The local community may experience lower water pressure or temporary interruptions to supply between 10pm and 8am while these measures are in operation.

In addition, to support water supplies during this period of increased demand, Uisce Éireann has also put contingency measures in place in Kilbeggan and Rathconrath. These measures include targeted contingency tankering operations to replenish treated water reservoirs and support areas experiencing increased demand. The additional water helps maintain reservoir levels, protect local supplies for customers during periods of sustained pressure on the system.

Uisce Éireann will continue to monitor reservoir levels closely and adjust operations daily based on demand, usage and weather conditions. 

David Gibbons Operations Manager, Uisce Éireann urged the community in Westmeath to support the conservation measures. “Although raw water sources remain at healthy levels, the sustained warm weather has significantly increased demand for water. Nighttime restrictions are being implemented in the north of the county at Ballany to support treated reservoir recovery and maintain daytime supply. Conserving water will help protect resources and maintain supply for all. When there is an increase in temperatures it leads to a rise in demand for water. Water is a hugely precious resource, and it is important to conserve water.” 

Simple steps taken at home, in the garden and at work can make a real difference in protecting supply during this time. 

More information on water conservation can be found on our Conservation page.

Tips to Conserve Water

• Drop the hose: Use a rose-head watering can over a hose or sprinkler. Aim for the roots. Water plants early or late in the day to limit evaporation.
• Take short showers instead of a bath: Reducing your shower time can save up to 10 litres of water per minute. A typical bath uses 80 litres.
• Turn off the tap: Not running water while brushing your teeth or shaving can save up to six litres a minute. Keep a jug of water in the fridge for drinks.
• Fill up your appliances: Only run your washing machine and dishwasher when they have a full load.
• Fix dripping taps: A single dripping tap can waste between 5,000 and 10,000 litres of water a year.
• Use a basin in the sink: Use a basin when rinsing vegetables or washing dishes and reuse that water for your plants.
• Clean the car with a sponge: When washing your car, avoid the hose and use a bucket and sponge instead.
• Install a water butt: Use it to collect rainwater from your gutters for gardening or washing the yard.
• Pick plants wisely: Opt for low-water plants like lavender or olive trees. Established plants and lawns often don't need watering unless there's a drought.
• Lock in moisture: Add bark or plant material to flower beds to prevent evaporation or use gel beads in pots to keep roots hydrated.

Members of the public can report any leaks in the public water network by contacting Uisce Éireann at 1800 278 278 or on our Report a Leak page.

Uisce Éireann’s customer care team is available 24/7 on 1800 278 278 and customers can also contact us on X @IWCare with any queries. For further updates, visit the Supply and Services section of our website.

Uisce Éireann has a free text service, providing real-time updates for local issues. Customers can sign up with their Eircode and mobile number at our Text Alerts page.