Now is the time . . .
For water distribution system managers to close the continuing gap between the total volume of water produced and the total volume of water delivered to end users. This gap, no matter what you chose to call it, contributes to increased water production costs and continues to be a continuous drain on water and financial resources. Even after completing replacement of customers meters, water managers frequently will question why their water losses remain inexplicably high.
The reason is that significant amounts of finished water continues to escape from the system before ever reaching end users. These losses are the result of various undisclosed situations, to include but not limited to leaking mains, and existing unmetered or unauthorized usage.
In order to maximize the results of your efforts to reduce systemic water losses, coordination of actions are required for everyone supporting you.
Over the past 35 years I’ve been amazed how many times I have seen hit- or-miss efforts applied with little planning. You have to look at the complete picture and cannot leave out the essential pieces to the puzzle.
I recently completed a project for a system that appeared to be on the right path, by modernizing its treatment facilities, replacing customer meters and distribution lines and acoustically surveying the remaining infrastructure for undiscovered leaks.
Be reminded that replacing customer meters with current technology addresses only one part of the water loss picture. There are several options we might suggest to help you monitor and identify system issues. How closely are you systematically reviewing your periodic water loss reports?
