Client Overview
Client Name
- Residential Units: 92
- Bulk Water Meters: 6
Location
Koelenhof St, Van Riebeeckshof, Cape Town
Project Duration
The initial inquiry was on May 20, 2024, from a Precision Meters distributor.
Problem Statement
La Veritas Residential Estate faced significant challenges with water losses due to ageing infrastructure and leaks throughout the complex. The estate relied solely on the municipal bulk meter for water measurement, leading to excessive water bills. Investigations revealed numerous leaks within the estate, prompting action.
Key Issues:
- Ageing Infrastructure: The main water line and service saddles were prone to leaks, resulting in losses of up to 12,000 litres per day from a single worn saddle. (Figure 1)
- Operational Inefficiencies: Leaks required shutting off the entire water supply, leading to costly refills, no water in the complex, and spikes in water usage.
- Infrastructure Gaps: A lack of accessible shut-off valves and fire hydrants compounded the challenges faced by residents.
Historical Challenges:
- Main Line Configuration: The estate’s main line, buried 2 meters below the surface (Figure 2), is connected to houses via saddles prone to deterioration. (Figure 1)
- Infrastructure Gaps: Valves and fire hydrants were buried or non-functional, requiring excavation and replacement.
- Water Consumption Trends: Frequent leaks led to erratic water consumption patterns, causing resident concerns and financial strain. (Figure 3).
Solution Provided
To address these challenges, Precision Meters proposed a comprehensive solution that included:
- Zoning the Estate: Creating zones within the complex for better monitoring and control of water usage. (Figure 4)
- Phase 1 Implementation: Installation of AMI-enabled bulk meters for zoning and monitoring.
- Phase 2 Implementation: Replacement of outdated residential meters with AMI technology for remote monitoring and individual tracking.
The AMI (Advanced Metering Infrastructure) system allows for digital monitoring and provides real-time alerts, streamlining leak detection and usage analysis.
Actions Taken
- Product Deployment: Precision Meters Infinity EVO Class C bulk meters were installed at strategic zone locations.
Infrastructure - Enhancements: Brick manholes were constructed for valve accessibility, and new fire hydrants were installed.
- Technology Integration: AMI devices were linked to an online dashboard, enabling digital monitoring.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Trustees were briefed on AMI functionality and shown dashboard capabilities. Residential meter samples were also presented.
Tools & Technologies Used
- Products: 6 Infinity EVO Class C meters and residential meter boxes equipped with AMI devices.
- Technologies: AMI systems integrated with a user-friendly online dashboard.
Challenges Encountered
External Challenges:
- Restricted Access: Small manholes (400mm x 600mm, 1.5m deep) complicated AMI installation.
- Communication Issues: Metal manhole covers disrupted AMI signal transmissions.
Solutions Implemented:
- Installation Adjustments: Specialised tools were procured to facilitate AMI unit installation in confined spaces.
- Improved Connectivity: Booster antennas and repositioned AMI devices enhanced signal strength. Fiberglass manhole covers replaced steel ones to mitigate interference.
- Future Consideration: A network gateway installation was proposed to further optimise communication.
Results & Impact
- Enhanced Monitoring: The estate’s water consumption can now be tracked online per zone, enabling faster detection of anomalies.
- Leak Management: Within 48 hours of identifying a leak, the issue was addressed, significantly reducing water losses.
- Individual Monitoring: Homeowners gained the ability to monitor their own water usage.
Client Feedback
The La Veritas Trustees expressed high satisfaction with the system’s performance and its ability to provide timely information. They anticipate substantial benefits from improved water management capabilities.
Key Takeaways
- Real-Time Monitoring Benefits: Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) provides early warnings for leaks and helps maintain balanced consumption across zones.
- Zoning Enhances Efficiency: Implementing zone-based metering allows for more effective distribution and management of water resources.
- Infrastructure Upgrades are Essential: Accessible valves and modernised meters contribute to long-term sustainability and reduced operational challenges.
- Proactive Maintenance is Key: Regular upgrades and proactive measures can prevent costly repairs and minimise future leaks.
For fast, compliant installations in homes, complexes and business parks, learn more on our Water Meter Installation Services page.
To learn more about the Precision Meters and the water meter products used in this project, see the below links:
Explore our full range of water meter products, including:
- Domestic Water Meters for homes and residential properties
- Commercial Water Meters are designed for businesses and industrial use
- Pre-installed Water Meters In Boxes for easy setup and protection
- Water Meter Accessories to support installation and maintenance
We also offer value-added services, such as financing and professional water meter installations, to help you get set up quickly and affordably.
Have questions or need a custom solution? Get in touch with us today.
