North Westside water utilities undergo repairs
Two aging North Westside water systems have been the object of some special attention.
The Regional District of Central Okanagan has been searching out underground leaks in both the Killiney Beach and Westshore Estates water systems. When a leak is found, repairs are made.
“The two water systems are 30 to 40 years old. During that time, underground water mains have deteriorated and numerous leaks have developed,” said Bruce Smith, RDCO communications officer.
“By utilizing the Okanagan Basin Water Board funding of almost $11,500 for this major leak detection project, we’ve been able to make repairs and significantly lower the pumping rates. By reducing the hours our system pumps are running, we’re reducing the amount of electricity required and that has also helped to reduce electrical operating costs.”
For example, Smith says, leak repairs and pump improvements on the Westshore Estates system saw the cost of electricity drop from $38,000 in 2011 to $22,000 last year.
“The reductions on the Killiney Beach system were lower, but there were fewer large leaks that needed to be repaired,” said Smith.
“It’s important to note that even within a small water system, minor leaks can add up quickly and contribute to unnecessary pumping, electrical use and wasted water. If left unaddressed, these small leaks can become significantly larger ones, leading to road washouts, damage to private property or both.”