THE IMPACT OF LEAKAGES ON THE ENERGY OF A WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

Delia Marginean*

Faculty of Building Services – Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, Romania

ABSTRACT

All water distribution systems are confronted to some extent with a common problem: water losses through leakages. In some cases water losses can even exceed 50% of the volumes of water entering the distribution system.

When water leaks from distribution pipes, energy is lost twice. Firstly, a great input of energy is required to treat the water so that it achieves drinking water quality standard. Secondly, energy is consumed when treated water is pumped into the distribution system. Energy lost through leakages is increasing unnecessarily the carbon footprint of water services.

Minimising water losses through leakages can lead to important energy savings for the water sector.

Keywords: water loss, leakage, water audit, pressure management, district meter area