Laois residents asked to check for leaks after the freeze

Laois water users are being asked to conserve water and check for leaks following the hard frost. 

The advice was issued by the National Federation of Group Water Scheme(NFGWS) who have become aware of instances of “exceptional” high usage following the thaw. 

Group water scheme members in Laois are urged to check for leaks as the freeze-thaw cycle of water can cause leaks in pipework and at joints or taps. 

“Over the last 48 hours, some group water schemes (GWSs) have reported an exceptional rise in water demand on their distribution network,” the NFGWS said.

“Drinking water treatment systems have a design capacity and where this is exceeded, such systems (and especially filtration) cannot operate as effectively. This increases the risk of contaminants entering the drinking water supply. Increased water demand caused by leaks impacts water availability and puts stress on aforementioned systems. They can also lead to unexpectedly high water bills for some members,” the NFGWS stated. 

Group Water Scheme personnel are working to locate leaks but also want users in Laois to check their water meters for unexpected use. 

“In keeping with the co-operative ethos of the community-owned GWS sector, members can be of assistance by quickly reporting any signs of leakage on the wider distribution network to their local GWS,” they said. 

“Each member can also help to lower demand by making special efforts to conserve water this week as their GWS works to address any overarching issues,” the NFGWS said.

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In conclusion, the NFGWS said Laois Group Water Scheme  members are being asked to: “Check for leaks on your property and out on the farm; especially in garages, outhouses and around cattle drinkers. Alert your local group water scheme if you notice unexplained water flowing on the roadside Make every effort to conserve water at home.”

 For further information, members can visit www.nfgws.ie/be-weather-ready