A simple way to reduce water usage is to be alert for leaks in pipes, fittings, pumps, and gauges in mechanical rooms and at headers throughout the building. Faucets and other restroom fittings are also places to inspect for fluid loss. Swift repair of these water leaks prevents collateral damage to wood surfaces and furnishings, ceiling tiles, and electrical equipment. The savings occur in the water bill and a lower sewage disposal fee as well.
Leaks that occur in closed systems can be even more expensive (i.e. in commercial buildings). Water circulating in the chilled water loop, the condenser water loop, and the steam loop are usually chemically treated for corrosion and hardness. Water lost from these systems loses valuable chemicals as well which increases the treatment costs. Also, the energy needed to heat or cool the circulating fluid is greater because a portion of the energy spent is lost with the leakage of the thermal energy embodied in the hot or cold water.
Hence: be extra vigilant of swimming pool piping, so as not to lose chlorinated water to the environs. An unseen underground leak could kill giant trees shading the house, even toxify ground water. Actually, the leak doesn’t have to discharge chemicals into the ground: too much water can kill shrubs and shade trees.
__________
Excerpted from Going Green, available as an eBook at this list of eBook retailers online.