Finding and fixing undetected network leaks
Finding and fixing undetected network leaks has always been a challenge for water utilities. But with breakthroughs in the analysis of data provided by cost-effective leak detecting-technologies, a solution is on the horizon.
The problem of undetected network leaks
Addressing undetected network leak losses.
We estimate that undetected network losses in Barwon Water’s regional network make up an average of 7.5% of total demand. That means compared to global averages, our network performs well. However, our climate is much drier by comparison and getting drier. Water matters, every drop is precious, and we need to ensure that we minimise all waste to secure our water future.
For more information visit Undetectable Network Leaks
Traditional methods of finding network leaks
Traditionally, finding a single network leak can take up to a year, and involve a high level of expertise, human resources, and the involvement of multiple stakeholders. The process can be costly and time-consuming.
Leaks in the network are often first detected when analysts notice an unusual change in outflows compared with historical averages. Spotting these changes can often be hidden by unusual weather conditions such as rainfall or drier-than-usual conditions which mask outflow variations.
Once a change has been confirmed, existing leak detection methods such as visual surveys, thermography, ground-penetrating radar, acoustic signalling, and pressure point analysis are all options that come with high costs and deliver variable outcomes.
If it is deemed critical, Barwon Water may also try some more physically demanding or potentially disruptive approaches such as physically inspecting stormwater outlets, walking the mains, or completing step-testing overnight where we shut down the water supply in zoned outages, to check tapping points and meters manually.
Where network leaks can occur
Our water network spans over 6,800 kilometres of pipe, 240 pumping stations, 40 water tanks, 8 water treatment plants, and 12 major reservoirs serving 320,000 permanent residents.
Leaks can occur at any point in the network. Advanced leak detection technology is already in place at major distribution infrastructure, but more can be done to service the rest of the network.
A new approach to finding network leaks
To secure our water future we need to make smarter choices about how we service our water and sewer networks.
Instead of waiting for changes to be noticed, Barwon Water is taking a proactive approach. We will map the flow of water through our network by measuring vibrations in pipes, pressure and usage across the region.
Using a range of technology solutions, including sewer sensors, loggers, and digital meters, our teams can pinpoint problems, optimise maintenance, and find and fix hidden leaks, saving billions of litres of water.
Providing digital meters is critical to our approach . Installing just one digital meter tells us very little about the health of the network, however when lots of meters are deployed, we can find unexplained changes in pressure, and usage which could indicate potential leaks.
We will also be able to detect suspected leaks if they occur on customer properties. We will alert residents to potential leaks, leading to savings on their bills that may otherwise have been impossible to discover.
How digital meters help find network leaks
- Digital Meters
Digital meters, in combination with other devices, map the flow of water, variations in water pressure, usage and vibrations in pipes throughout our network. The technology in each meter is simple enough to be reliable and long-lasting while also helping us draw new insights on how to make smarter decisions to service our network and customers better.
- Data Cloud
Barwon Water encrypts and collects water data for analysis. No personal information is collected or transmitted.
- Analysis
By analysing variations in the flow of water, pressure, vibrations and usage, Barwon Water can find problems in the network.
- Find and Fix Leaks
Once network leaks are identified and located, we can fix them, optimising maintenance, improving customer service and saving water that would have otherwise been lost.
Leaks on customer properties
Spotting leaks at home can be tricky because much like network leaks, they’re often hidden until the damage they’ve caused becomes visible.
If Barwon Water suspects there may be a leak on a customer’s property, we will make every effort to notify the customer so they can fix it as soon as possible. Leaks are potentially expensive, can cause property damage and result in unexpectedly expensive water bills.
While historically we have had no way to notify customers of leaks on their property prior to them receiving a larger-than-expected quarterly bill, as digital meters are adopted our ability to catch potential leaks early will increase. Our goal is to make bill shock from leaks, a thing of the past.
For more information, visit Dealing with leaks at home