With more and more livestock being turned out to paddocks across Northern Ireland, NI Water is reminding farmers to check their land and farm buildings for leaks.
NI Water stated that “leaks can often develop in pipes and fittings” as field troughs and other external water supplies start to return back into full use.
Paul Bryce, who is the head of water at NI Water, noted that identifying leaks early is particularly important as it “helps ensure farmers’ money isn’t literally going down the drain”.
He said: “Spring is a busy and important time for our farming community as animals return to the fields.
“We are reminding farmers to check their water meters before turning on troughs and other water supplies and then check again once they are in use.
“If the meter is moving when no water is being used, this is a clear sign there may be a leak on the property.”
Bryce emphasised that money is effectively lost every time a leak occurs on a farm, highlighting that identifying and repairing issues early can help prevent “unexpectedly high bills.”
He added: “A typical leak at a drinking trough can add up to £200 per week to a farm’s water bill.
“By regularly checking meters, taps, pipework, land and troughs, farmers can quickly resolve problems and protect their business from rising costs.”
Advice
NI Water also provided farmers with the following advice to help them prevent leakage and save money on their water bills:
- Check water meters regularly in spring; unexpected increases may indicate a leak;
- Make sure you understand the layout of pipework across your land;
- Consider mapping pipe runs, which may extend over several acres;
- Know the location of all stop valves;
- Install additional stop valves to isolate water to unused areas;
- Repair leaks promptly to reduce water bills; a major cost for working farms;
- Inspect remote troughs, especially exposed inlet pipes;
- Ensure underground pipes are laid at least 750mm below ground level;
- Insulate pipes within farm buildings;
- Review water storage capacity – NI Water recommends at least 24 hours’ storage in case of supply disruption.
If a farmer suspects a leak on their land, NI Water advised them to contact an accredited WaterSafe plumber on the WaterSafe website.