Scottish Water is calling on households across the country to use water more efficiently as Scotland heads towards the summer months.

The appeal comes ahead of Water Saving Week, running from 4 to 8 May, with concerns that extended dry weather could put pressure on supplies despite current levels appearing healthy.

Reservoirs are currently around 97 percent full, but the utility warns that levels can fall quickly if dry conditions persist, particularly as demand rises during warmer weather.

The warning follows last year’s unusually dry start, when customers were asked to reduce usage to help maintain normal supplies across Scotland.

For many households, the risk may not feel immediate, but Scottish Water is clear that early action can make a significant difference if conditions change.

Brian McCarthy said the message is about being prepared rather than reactive.

“In May 2025 we had to call on customers to use less water to help protect resources and maintain normal supplies across the country following the driest start to the year across Scotland since 1964.

“Reservoir levels across the country are currently above average levels at about 97% full, which is obviously good.

“But if there is another extended period of dry weather at any time, those levels will fall substantially.

“And, as people are starting to think about their gardens, lawns and plants, we are urging them to consider how they can use water more efficiently in their gardens and in and around the home in general.

“If we all do a little bit to help now it can make a big difference in helping maintain normal water supplies for everyone if there any challenges ahead due to dry weather and its impact on reservoir levels this summer.”

Scottish Water is encouraging simple changes that can be made in everyday routines, from taking shorter showers to only running washing machines and dishwashers when full.

Garden use is also a key focus, with households urged to use watering cans instead of hoses and to consider installing water butts to capture rainwater.

The utility highlights that a hose can use up to 1,000 litres of water an hour, while even small changes like turning off the tap when brushing teeth can save significant amounts over time.

Fixing dripping taps is another priority, with a single leak potentially wasting more than 5,500 litres of water a year.

Beyond supply concerns, there is also a cost benefit, with around half of household water use involving hot water, which carries an energy cost.

“On average, each person in Scotland uses about 180 litres of water every day.

“Around half of that is hot water so there is an opportunity to use less energy and water at the same time.

“About one fifth of the average household’s heating bills are spent on heating water, so saving water not only helps protect water resources and the planet, it can also help keep your energy bills down which is important given the current cost of living challenges.”

For Highland households, where weather patterns can shift quickly and rural supply systems can be more sensitive, the message carries particular weight.

It is a reminder that while Scotland is known for its rain, water remains a resource that cannot be taken for granted.

Scottish Water is urging households to take simple steps now to reduce usage, helping protect supplies and manage costs as the country prepares for the possibility of a dry summer.