The Flow 

Welcome to The Flow, our official blog!
I’m Stephen Price, Managing Director of Wessex Pumps and Pipework. Here, I’ll be sharing updates on what we’re working on, tips and advice, plus a behind the scenes look at life at Wessex Pumps and Pipework.

Blog entry

23rd July 2025:

How to Preserve Water in Your Garden During Hosepipe Bans

Practical Advice from Stephen Price

With the UK experiencing yet another dry summer and hosepipe bans being introduced across many regions, many of us are once again being asked to cut back on water use. At Wessex Pumps and Pipework, we understand the importance of maintaining green spaces, whether it’s your flower beds, vegetable patches, or prized lawn—while also protecting our shared water resources.

Below are some practical tips and sustainable alternatives to help you care for your garden without breaching the ban or wasting precious water.

1. Collect Rainwater – Even When It’s Scarce

Even during dry periods, occasional showers do occur. Make the most of them by installing water butts on every available downpipe. Connecting multiple butts in series can increase your capacity significantly. Some key tips:

• Fit gutter filters to keep debris out
• Use a fine mesh cover to prevent mosquitoes
• Raise butts on stands for easy watering can access

Pro Tip: A single water butt can collect hundreds of litres from just one downpour

2. Mulch, Mulch, Mulch

Apply a generous layer of organic mulch (wood chips, straw, or compost) around your plants. This:

• Retains soil moisture
• Suppresses weeds
• Regulates soil temperature

This simple act can reduce your watering needs by up to 70%.

3. Water Smartly and Sparingly

When watering is permitted (using watering cans, not hoses), make every drop count:

• Water early or late in the day to reduce evaporation
• Focus on the base of plants—don’t spray leaves
• Deep watering once or twice a week is better than light watering daily

4. Reuse Greywater (With Care)

Used water from:

• Bathing
• Dishwashing
• Washing machines

Can often be reused on non-edible plants and lawns. Avoid water with strong chemicals or bleach. Consider using eco-friendly soaps and detergents.

Important: Don’t store greywater for more than 24 hours as bacteria can build up.

5. Install a Drip Irrigation System (for use when bans are lifted)

While not usable during hosepipe bans unless exempt, drip irrigation is an excellent long-term investment. It delivers water directly to the root and uses up to 90% less water than traditional sprinklers.

Alternative Water Sources: Beyond the Mains

When rainfall is unreliable and hosepipe bans are in effect, it’s wise to explore alternative water supplies. Here’s how:

Boreholes: A Sustainable Long-Term Option

A borehole taps into underground aquifers, providing a private, reliable water supply that isn’t subject to hosepipe bans. It can be used for:

• Garden irrigation
• Livestock
• Commercial landscaping
• Even domestic use (with proper treatment)

At Wessex Pumps and Pipework Ltd, we offer:

• Site assessment and drilling
• Pump installation and maintenance
• Full water treatment systems if needed

While installation requires investment, boreholes can pay for themselves over time, especially for larger properties or those with extensive watering needs.

Other Options

• Wells: Traditional shallow sources, though less reliable in dry summers
• Spring water: If available, can be harnessed with proper filtration and piping
• Treated wastewater systems: For more advanced or eco-conscious users

Water Wisely, Garden Sustainably. Water is a finite resource and we’re all responsible for using it wisely. With planning and smart investment, your garden can thrive—even during restrictions.

If you’re interested in exploring rainwater harvesting systems, greywater solutions, or borehole installation, get in touch with us. We’d be happy to advise you.

Contact us today to future proof your water supply.

Thanks for reading.

Blog entry

27th June 2025:

400 Years of Maryland – Reflections from Kiplin Hall

Last week, I had the privilege of attending a truly special celebration at Kiplin Hall, North Yorkshire. Kiplin Hill is a place steeped in history and close to my heart, the ancestral home of George Calvert, the 1st Baron Baltimore, who founded the colony of Maryland in America 400 years ago this year. During these events I had the privilege of meeting the former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. He spoke warmly of the importance of heritage, community and the people who keep these connections alive. I couldn’t agree more.

As someone who is in an industry rooted in legacy and precision, I often think about how the past shapes the present. Events like this are a reminder of how far we’ve come and how important it is to support the places and people preserving our history for future generations. A big thank you to the team at Kiplin Hall for all that you do.

Meanwhile, down in the South of England, my team has begun work on an industrial new foul water connection for one of our valued clients. It’s a busy period for us and the team has been working flat out, something I’m incredibly grateful for. A huge thanks as well to our customers for keeping us so busy!

Thanks for reading.