More than half of the water company's customers are now on a water meter, with many now preferring to have a bill based on how much water they use. In the last six years alone more than 50,000 households in the Wessex area have opted to have a meter installed.

Wessex said that water meters are becoming the norm in its region, as people feel they have greater control over their bill and are more aware of the savings that could be made.

The utility is currently writing to thousands of households in its area, explaining how they could save an average of £100 per year when compared to their current rateable value bill - based on the size of their properties.

Aimee Shaw, who is co-ordinating the metering project, said:

"The biggest benefit of being on a meter is you only pay for the water you use, so you could save money. It follows an upward trend year on year with more people applying for meters, which are normally fitted free of charge."

"It particularly makes sense to switch if you live on your own, have small family or live in a house with a high rateable value. We want to encourage more people to consider looking into whether they may benefit from going on a meter."

Earlier this year the water company announced that customers who decide to make the switch would have up to two years to decide whether or not a meter is for them.