Manufacturers are fully committed to continued reduction of wasted water, including from leaking toilets, says the Bathroom Manufacturers Association. The trade body’s comments come as the BBC broadcast “The Great Leaky Loo Scandal” on Radio Four’s Costing the Earth programme.
The water industry believes that up to one in twenty toilets installed in the UK have a leak. The BMA has been liaising with water companies and the industry to examine leaking fittings, to understand better why problems are occurring. Since the Radio Four programme was recorded, manufacturer investigations have shed new light on the issue.
Tom Reynolds, BMA Chief Executive explained:
“We can see that a lot of valve failures were on old products. Materials, design, and reliability have since improved, and this is a very positive step. Continuous improvement of products is part of the industry’s lifeblood and will be ongoing.”
“Bathroom manufacturers have spearheaded public awareness of water-saving products through the Unified Water Label and are leading the fight against wasting water. Dual-flush valves can benefit water efficiency by giving the option of a lower flush volume. They have helped to successfully lower flush volumes from 13 litres to as little as 2.5 litres.
“Industry tests have shown that many leaks could have been repaired with some simple and inexpensive maintenance. Like any equipment, all toilet mechanisms including valves and siphons require correct installation and occasional maintenance. We are working with partners to get the message across that repairing a leaky loo can be very straightforward and that preventative maintenance is a simple job that can save lots of water.”
“Regulations require fittings to prevent the waste, misuse, and undue consumption of water and reputable manufacturers go to great lengths to ensure this is the case. Compliant products, well-installed and maintained will not leak.”