Groundworks
Drainage & Water Management Feature
Whole site flow reduction devices can be easily and simply retrofitted to any metre installation, or metre exchange when upgrading or remediating underground metre chambers
is limited, then the amount used in ‘time controlled’ activities is also limited – but without providing a degradation of service. More importantly, by not requiring any intervention or behavioural change on the part of the customer, will lead to a ‘natural’ reduction in consumption. Our water companies are regulated to provide a minimum level of water
supply, but in many areas, due to network structure and gravity fed systems, supply is much greater. Households in high pressure areas could be receiving up to three times the required minimum levels. So, run a hose for five minutes at the bottom of the hill, and your lawn will be greener than the gardener that does the same at the top. ‘Time controlled’ uses could be reduced if all households received the same acceptable ‘standardised’ supply. Independent research carried out by WRc, showed a theoretical reduction
of 2-4% of typical water usage when such devices are installed. However, recent field trials by a major UK water company have shown savings of 5%. As part of UK Net Zero Carbon targets, water companies have been targeted
to reduce the water householders are using, Per Capita Consumption (PCC). PCC reduction targets average just under 6% in the UK, so utilising property flow restriction could achieve just 1% off the average PPC reduction targets! However, water companies are also tied to customer performance commitment levels (C-Mex), and some seem to be concerned that a reduction in the supply
levels to properties will prompt customer complaints, offsetting the financial rewards of achieving PCC targets. Field trials of devices such as LoFlo, have shown that most customers are not
aware of supply levels in their property, within certain limits. Especially when moving into a new property, customers accept the levels as ‘being what it is’ and fears of an increase in customer complaints impacting C-Mex values are overrated. In recent trials in England, where occupants did notice the change in supply, it was the positive impact of reduced flow that was cited, e.g. reduced splashing at the kitchen sink. Whole site flow reduction devices can be easily and simply retrofitted to
any metre installation, or metre exchange when upgrading or remediating underground metre chambers. Tus, allowing water demand management, with little or no impact on consumers, at the minimal cost of approximately £20 per household. As the device is fitted at the water metre, it is the water company’s fitting.
Terefore, landlords must be proactive in challenging water companies to provide a standardised supply to help UK housing stock to achieve water consumption targets.
Article supplied by Groundbreaker 40 | HMMFebruary/March 2023 |
www.housingmmonline.co.uk
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