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SA records decline in network faults

SA Water reports fewer incidents in 2021

In 2021, 3,614 water main leaks and breaks were reported across SA Water’s 27,000 km network, compared to 3,749 in 2020.

SA Water said that despite the reduction in breaks, the leading cause continues to be the impact of weather and soils on the network. 

SA Water general manager of sustainable infrastructure Amanda Lewry said in Adelaide in particular, reactive clay soils move as they transition from hot and dry seasons to wet and cool.

The stress this causes on underground pressurised water pipes remains the number one cause of water main incidents.

“Similar to 2020 and 2017, we saw relatively mild transitions between seasons last year, resulting in more stable levels of moisture in the soils and therefore fewer water main breaks,” said Lewry. 

Another reason for the reduction in incident can be attributed to upgrades in infrastructure. 

“Last year, we installed around 59 kilometres of new water mains across South Australia – including under several key arterial roads in Adelaide,” said Lewry.

“Across 2020-24, we’re investing $155 million to improve water services for our customers and maintain South Australia’s water infrastructure, including by expanding our use of smart technology.”

The 2020-21 results show South Australians experienced 13.3 water main breaks or leaks per 100  km of pipe, which is lower than the average of 18.9 and better than more than half of comparable-sized Australian water utilities. 

For more information visit the SA Water website. 

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