Enhancing Leak Detection With Remote Pressure Monitoring

A car accident in California led to a major water leak when a vehicle struck a fire hydrant in the middle of the night. Before emergency responders were even alerted, a pressure sensor detected the issue and sent a text notification to the water utility manager. This allowed a crew to be dispatched within minutes, significantly reducing response time.

This rapid reaction was possible due to the recent deployment of pressure sensors throughout the water distribution system. Unlike traditional SCADA systems, which rely on alerts from pump stations, remote pressure monitoring enables utilities to detect sudden spikes or drops in pressure almost instantly.

Pressure monitoring is crucial for identifying leaks that cause water loss and contamination. In recent years, advancements in remote telemetry have further enhanced its effectiveness. By reducing the need for manual readings—sometimes requiring crews to travel up to 20 miles—utilities can save both time and labor costs.

Progressive water utilities, both large and small, are increasingly adopting this technology to gain better visibility into their distribution systems. The result is improved efficiency, lower operating costs, and reduced strain on aging infrastructure, making remote pressure monitoring a valuable investment for modern water management.