1. I would not bother to read a meter,. Have an electricity `smart' meter and this is read, just like the earlier meter,  only when 6-monthly statement arrives just to check figure is correct. .
2. Before Droxford became connected to mains water, I pumped water from my well (for some time manually) and the water tasted better. My first cup of tea on mains water -ugh !
3. Never use a hose in garden or elsewhere.. During dry periods, I syphon bath water into a plastic dustbin for use in the garden. 
4. Alas, water extracted from vicinity of Meon River means water meadows no longer flood in January and then freeze for skating.