Detection and treatment of water loss defects with S2N device in Zalaapáti, a municipality with a population of 1 700 inhabitants
Zalavíz Zrt. an innovative wireless metering system was introduced in the municipality of Zalaapáti to provide accurate, real-time data to help the utility improve operational efficiency. The system provides instant visibility of consumption data and allows a rapid response to changes in the network, reducing water losses.
Object:
The aim of the project was to support the reliable operation of the water network with a modern online monitoring solution and to facilitate the rapid detection of hidden faults and irregularities.
As a result, the service provider can take even more effective action to reduce water losses and ensure uninterrupted supply to the population.
The challenge
- Traditional measurement methods do not always allow hidden faults (e.g. leaks, slow pipe breaks) to be detected in time.
- Continuous monitoring of network load and consumption patterns was difficult.
- Pipe breaks and leaks were often only detected when a significant amount of water had already been lost.
- There was no real-time data feedback to enable rapid and informed intervention.
Our solution
- Installation of WS IoT consumption meters – a wireless, digital system that measures water consumption on an hourly, daily, and monthly basis.
- Online platform and mobile app – allows the system status to be monitored from anywhere.
- Graphical data analysis – consumption curves can be used to clearly distinguish between normal, linear and exponential increases indicating anomalies.
- Early fault detection – the system immediately signals unusual consumption patterns, such as when a leak starts to turn into a pipe burst.
- Customizable alarms – configurable thresholds alert you to events that require immediate action.
The results
2022. July:
- Due to a pipe burst detected at a later stage, monthly water consumption jumped to 350 m³.
- Of this, approx. 250 m³ was lost as hidden leakage.
- This incident highlighted how quickly losses can increase if intervention is not carried out in good time.
2022. September
- After detecting a rapid increase in consumption, the system issued a timely warning.
- Thanks to the rapid response, water loss was limited to approx. 70 m³.
- Total monthly consumption was 171.8 m³, which was approx. 50–70% above normal but still manageable.
Experience
The operation of the system clearly demonstrated that early detection and rapid response are critical.
Digital metering can result in significant savings in just a few days, protecting the utility from serious water loss.
Advantages of the system
Real-time data
Hourly, daily and monthly breakdowns, available for review at any time.
Modern online interface
Accessible on mobile and desktop devices.
Fast fault detection
Even hidden leaks can be detected based on consumption patterns.
Automatic alarms
With customizable thresholds.
Water savings and cost efficiency
Significantly reduce unmetered water loss.
Sustainable operation
More reliable and efficient system monitoring during daily operations.
