Water Loss Control For Small Water Systems – Part 1

Water is a precious resource, and effective management is crucial for utilities of all sizes. However, small water systems often face unique challenges when controlling water loss. Water loss, typically categorized as real and apparent losses can significantly impact a utility’s financial health and sustainability. Unlike larger utilities with more significant resources, small systems often struggle with limited funding, aging infrastructure, and staffing constraints, making water loss control a daunting task.

One of the biggest hurdles small water utilities face is aging infrastructure. Many small systems operate with decades-old pipes, valves, and meters that are prone to leaks and breaks. Limited budgets often mean that proactive maintenance takes a backseat to reactive repairs. As a result, real losses from leaks can go undetected for long periods, wasting both water and revenue. Without leak detection equipment, or the ability to contract out this service due to budgetary constraints, many small utilities must rely on customer complaints or visible surface leaks to identify problems, which is far from an efficient approach.