What is the main purpose of conducting a leak survey in water distribution systems?

The primary function of conducting a leak survey in water distribution systems is to locate potential leaks. Leak surveys are critical for the maintenance of water distribution infrastructure, as they help identify areas where water may be escaping from the system. This can prevent significant water loss, reduce operational costs, and mitigate the risk of damage to surrounding areas caused by leaks.

By identifying leaks early, utilities can take action to repair them, which not only conserves water but also enhances the overall efficiency and reliability of the distribution network. It also plays an important role in ensuring consistent water pressure and quality for consumers, as leaks can lead to contamination or service disruptions.

Other activities, such as calculating pressure levels or assessing water quality, serve different purposes and do not directly address the problem of locating leaks within the distribution system. While system improvements may be identified as an outcome of addressing leaks, the main objective of a leak survey specifically focuses on detecting those leaks to facilitate timely repairs and prevent further issues.