CCP 12-10-1990 - Laserfiche WebLink

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,- . .. WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM LOSSES NOVEMBER 20, ]990 . PAGE THREE From this data it appears that the residential "Del' connection usage" is down slighlly in the first and second quarters of 1990 in comparison to the 1989 usage. Since the number of connections was relatively stable, il appears that lhe decreased average consumption rate cannot be attributed to a large number of new connections which have low water consumption, such as large apartment complexes with low occupancy rates. It would be appropriate to evaluate this situation in greater detai 1 by conducting a similar calculation with 1987 and ]988 data to provide a longer term average for comperison. O. ~~eter Reading and Billing Errors The current meter reading and billing systems appear to be doing a good job in monitoring the water usage. The meters are personally read each quarter and large changes in usage are noted, questioned and adjusted es necessary. If meter defects are determined to be the cause of the discrepancy, the meters are replaced, With this type of hand review of the data by two separale people, . individui1l "reading" or "billing" problems are typically trapped before the totdl billings are summarized. E. Underground Leakage Underground leakage can be a major source of water loss within a distribution system. Leaks can be very small and remain undetected for many years, or large and erupt through the surface in a ~alter of mlnUles. The large leaks due to main breaks are typicaily reported to the Public Works Department and repairs are made within a few hours, The minor leaks are difficult to isolate since they mayor mJY not erupt. Ci ty personnel indicate that on an average, there are 4 to 6 water main breaks in each year and there are some areas which are partlcularly prone to this type of problem. These type of problem areas, such as Old Highviay 10, are considered the prime locations for minor type leaks as well. There are several methods available for leak detection, and there are local contractors which conduct this type of wor'k. I n many cases, the leaks can be isolated to short segments of main or possibly service lines. .