A five-year study to detect water leaks is under way in Craigieburn.
Yarra Valley Water (YVW) has contacted 1500 customers inviting them to take part in the water management study, which has the dual benefit of saving on higher water bills through early detection of leaks and also of potentially reducing the costs of future water supply infrastructure.
By signing up to be part of the study, home owners/occupiers will have a simple device fitted at their water meter, which will enable them to monitor water use and identify any unusual patterns – which will be particularly effective in detecting leaks early rather than getting a shock when the water bill arrives.
YVW managing director Tony Kelly said leaks could occur on household plumbing, at fittings and fixtures, be caused by faulty valves within appliances or be the simple result of a hose or tap being left on.
“Businesses and schools are using similar devices to proactively detect water wastage such as leaking pipes, dripping taps or hoses left running,” Mr Kelly said. “Households will be able to do the same.”
Mr Kelly said that urban growth in Melbourne’s north means about $1.2 billion of water, sewer and recycled water infrastructure would needed over the next 25 years to service new developments.
“If we can size our pipes and pumps, tanks and treatment plants to the specific usage requirements of the area, we can lower the overall community cost,” Mr Kelly said.
■ YVW has teamed up with local Centrelink offices to deliver free drop-in information sessions about Water Care for customers. The first session will be at the Centrelink Epping office on Thursday from 10am until 3pm.
» Yarra Valley Water, 1800 994 789
