The water loss mystery: where did all the drops go???

Stop letting your profits drain away; learn how smart strategies can reclaim every precious drop!

This summer, I had the opportunity to engage with various water utilities, and one topic dominated our discussions: reducing Non-Revenue Water (NRW).

Utilities from diverse regions shared their intimidating challenges and insights on water management, but a common concern emerged; the struggle to effectively track water loss.

Some of the water network operators in those utilities expressed frustration over outdated leak detection methods. They said, “We’re often reacting instead of being proactive.”

→ And who wants to play a game of catch-up when it comes to managing vital resources like water? ??

It’s tough out there. For many utilities, water loss can feel like a mysterious black hole. Imagine having no accurate insights, and then suddenly, you’re left scrambling to find and fix leaks that could have been detected earlier.

I often find myself explaining the importance of adopting a clear strategy for tracking water loss, and the pushback I hear is telling. “We’ve always done it this way,” they say. But here’s the kicker:

Sticking to the same old practices could be a recipe for disaster.

Utilities need to recognize that tracking water loss is about more than just conserving water. It’s about safeguarding your assets, bolstering your financial health, and preserving the environment we all share. So if you’re in a position of oversight and haven’t yet prioritized this issue, it’s time for a rethink.

Here is Flowless' three-step approach to tackling NRW. First, we start with the fundamentals: water balance calculations to identify and break down water loss into their components and quantify each component. Then, we leverage active monitoring and data collection, giving utilities the real-time awareness they need to detect leaks as they arise. Finally, we help you make educated actions based on the data you gather, allowing for gradual but impactful improvements.

And here’s a quick tip: collecting data across your water network with the proper precision and frequency (through meters & pressure sensors) might sound like a no-brainer, but it’s often the first thing that gets overlooked. We hear resistance sometimes: “We can handle issues as they come up.” But this reactive mindset can lead to far greater costs down the line.        

Without proper measurement and data collection, managing your water network is like driving blindfolded. You’re likely to miss leaks and let water loss slip through the cracks. But when you install those meters and sensors strategically to collect data at the proper precision and frequency, everything changes. You gain active insights, detect leaks early, and enhance overall efficiency. The outcome? Reduced costs, optimized resources, and a smoother compliance process. So yes, while installing meters and constructing DMA's might seem like a hassle right now, think of it as an investment in a more efficient future. Trust me, every drop saved counts, and it all adds up to a healthier water future.

P.S. Always feel free to send a DM with a question, feedback or request a demo.

Warmly,

Aya