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Infrastructure

Water Losses

The difference between the amount of water supplied to a distribution system and the amount of water sold to consumers is referred to as “water losses.” These losses typically arise due to water leaks in the pipes and illegal connections. Water losses depend on the type and age of the distribution network, ground conditions, system pressure, and the number of meters and connection points. Efficient operations can reduce and control these losses.

There is a significant relationship between water pressure and water losses. High pressure makes it difficult to control shut-off valves, and poor sealing of these control devices leads to significant leaks. Cracks in pipes, faulty connections, valves, and faucets are common sources of leaks. While the normal loss rate in networks is around 10-15%, older and worn-out systems may experience losses as high as 60-70%.

Main causes of water leakage:
  1. Unauthorized water consumption without meters
  2. Leaks and overflows from storage tanks
  3. Leaks from main transmission pipelines
  4. Leaks from network joints and cracks
  5. Leaks from valves and measuring devices
  6. Leaks from consumer connections
  7. Leaks in domestic plumbing systems
Benefits of preventing water leaks:
  • Reduces water waste
  • Increases water availability and quality
  • Lowers unit costs
  • Controls system pressure
  • Prevents contamination from cracks and ensures public health
  • Reduces the need for excessive network and pipeline installations
Key reasons for water leaks:
  • High pressure
  • Pipe quality and diameter
  • Pipe aging
  • Ground conditions, subsidence
  • Heavy traffic loads and inadequate pipe protection
  • Damage to pipes during excavation
  • Insufficient insulation of abandoned connections
  • Increased network load
  • Inadequate operation and maintenance of the system
  • Incompatibility of pipes with local conditions
  • Poor craftsmanship during installation and maintenance

Detection of Water Leaks: Water leaks are usually detected when water rises to the surface or when system pressure drops, causing complaints from consumers who are unable to get water. Passive methods are commonly used by municipalities for leak detection. Another approach involves regular system listening (active method), measuring regional flows, leak measurement, and pressure control.

Active methods include pressure control, regional meter checks, measuring nighttime flows, and using sound detection devices. The most effective active method involves using devices like the correlator, which detects the sound of the leak using sensors placed at two different points in the water distribution pipe, and remote water control systems, which gather data from various points in the water system to a central monitoring hub.

Benefits of leak detection and control:
  • Reduced pump capacity
  • Less pumping energy required
  • Smaller pipe diameters
  • Reduced need for filtration materials
  • Less chemical usage in treatment processes
  • More population benefiting from the same water source

Key Considerations: Water losses increase the real cost of water because, in addition to the water used, additional pumping energy and chemicals for treatment are needed. Efficient leak control helps reduce the difference between supply and demand while preventing unnecessary energy and chemical waste.

The Turkish Society for Infrastructure and Trenchless Technologies will continue its national and international efforts to provide optimal solutions for reducing water loss and leakage.