System Impacts
O&M Impact
An environmentally conscious water upgrade can reduce potable water, sewage discharge, and energy usage bills by lowering resource consumption. These benefits are diminished if the system is not well maintained. Leaks from faulty fixtures and piping drastically increase water consumption. Auditing and commissioning the water system and creating an equivalent water management plan are essential to achieving sustained performance moving forward.
Green Tips and Strategies
Follow FEMP BMP’s in all maintenance activities. | Check faucet and fixture washers and gaskets for wear and replace them if necessary. | Ensure tight connections using pipe tape and wrenches, and check faucet washers and gaskets for wear; replace as needed. |
Inspect irrigation systems and outdoor water components each spring to make sure no damage arose due to frost or freezing. | Read conductivity and flow meters regularly to quickly identify problems and record any trends. | Install meters in different areas or zones of the water system to monitor flow rates. |
Consider instituting cathodic protection for metal components such as pipes and tanks to control corrosion. | Consider water consumption when maintaining landscape. Avoid using water to clean sidewalks, parking lots, or other hardscapes. Use mulch and sufficient topsoil that capture water sources for longer periods of time. | Establish a user-friendly method to report leaks or malfunctions. |