Author(s)

P. Cortez, L. Ochoa & V. Bourguett

Abstract

The purpose of this work was to reduce the volume of water loss caused by leaks in distribution pipes (distribution losses) and poor billing for consumption (billing losses). The methodology consisted of dividing up the distribution area into different sectors (hydrometric districts) to control input volume and consumption. The sectors were then inspected to detect leaks, measure discharge and carry out repairs. Also, unauthorized service connections and other losses due to unbilled water volumes were localized and evaluated. Later data analysis was carried out to obtain the following performance indicators: distribution efficiency, billing efficiency, and distribution-billing efficiency (the latter is a product of the former two), which added to the unaccounted-for water equalled 100% efficiency. The work was carried out on 17 sectors that include: 24,363 service connections, 85% of them with a meter, 117,029 people, and 209.4 km of pipes. The results were 2,054 leaks detected; which account for a total discharge of 22 l/s. Also 1,573 unauthorized service connections and other sources of billing losses were located. The average distribution efficiency was 82%; the virtual billing efficiency, 93%; the virtual distribution-billing efficiency, 77%, and unaccounted-for water, 23%. Billing efficiency and distribution-billing efficiency are considered as virtual since unauthorized service connections, when located, are subject to an administrative process, which may last a month or more. Keywords: water looses reduction, distribution efficiency, billing efficiency. 1 Introduction Solving water loss in water distribution networks is not only a choice for increasing water availability, but a requirement for getting funds for new

Keywords

water looses reduction, distribution efficiency, billing efficiency.