Water audits: what’s the point?
WEDNESDAY 4TH OCTOBER 2023
Understanding how your business uses water is the first step to a more sustainable and affordable water supply
There’s no doubt that the water market is going through a turbulent time. Water is under increasing pressure due to rising demand, unpredictable climate patterns, and inefficient management. For organisations, industries, and institutions, ensuring efficient water usage is not just a matter of ecological responsibility; it's becoming an economic imperative.
Enter water audits, designed to help businesses make sense of their water supply. But what exactly are water audits, and why are they so crucial for organisations today? Let’s take a closer look.
What is a water audit?
A water audit is a systematic review of water usage within a facility or a particular operational system. The primary objective is to identify areas of potential water conservation, assess inefficiencies, and provide data-backed recommendations to improve water use strategies.
In a world where water should be considered a precious resource, water audits help organisations to identify direct economic and environmental benefits.
The benefits of water audits
Cost savings
For many organisations, water-related costs are not just about consumption. They also pertain to wastewater disposal, water treatment, and energy costs associated with water heating or movement. By identifying inefficiencies and implementing changes, substantial financial savings can be gained in the long term.
Risk mitigation
With increasing water scarcity in many regions and potential regulatory changes on the horizon, understanding and optimising water use can help mitigate future risks associated with limited access or higher costs.
Environmental responsibility
Today’s businesses have a responsibility to do their bit for the planet, and water conservation plays a pivotal role in preserving ecosystems, minimising the depletion of natural resources, and ensuring a sustainable future. Organisations and businesses that prioritise efficient water use contribute positively to the environment.
Operational efficiency
Implementing water-saving strategies often translates into increased operational efficiency. Systems are streamlined, wastage is minimised, and the overall operational footprint is reduced.
Public relations & brand image
With growing consumer awareness about environmental issues, organisations that can showcase their commitment to sustainable practices can stand out and build credibility. A rigorous water audit and subsequent efficiency measures can enhance brand image and customer loyalty.
What does a water audit involve?
There are several key factors that make up a commercial water audit, including:
Data collection: this involves gathering information about water meters, billing data, system schematics, and operational practices.
On-site inspection: a visual inspection of the facility or system is conducted to understand the flow of water, identify leaks, and assess fixtures or equipment for efficiency.
Analysis & benchmarking: collected data is analysed to understand consumption patterns. This can be benchmarked against industry standards or historical data for the facility.
Recommendations: after a thorough analysis, actionable recommendations can be provided to address identified inefficiencies. This could range from simple fixes, such as repairing leaks, to more comprehensive solutions like replacing outdated equipment.
How do you arrange a water audit?
A comprehensive audit of your organisation’s water supply might sound like a mammoth task, but getting started is easy. All you need to do is reach out to utilities experts who are able to provide the auditing services you’re looking for. And lucky for you, you’re in the right place.
Get in touch with Everflow today
Want to understand more about the way your business uses water and other utilities? You’re in the right place. Get in touch with the Everflow team today to find out how we can support your organisation.