Toilet Leaks: Water Damage & Water Shortages
Tackle these items and protect your net operating income (NOI)
The State of Water Cost in Canada: Water is an essential resource, but its cost is rising at one of the highest rates ever seen by Canadians. Some major cities across the country have outlined their plans for annual double-digit water/sewer rate increases for the next decade! These increases will fund much needed upgrades, repairs and replacement of water and sewage lines, many of which have aged beyond life expectancy causing leaks and municipal water loss/waste events like those we have witnessed this summer in Alberta.
While this type of infrastructure support and improvement is past due, increases of this capacity will inevitably result in the doubling of water costs for many property owners, every 7-9 years. Albertans are not exempt from these rate hikes and have seen notable increases in water rates in recent years. Major cities like Calgary, Edmonton, and Red Deer have experienced some of the highest hikes in AB, with rate increases from 4.5% to almost 8% from 2020 onward. As property managers/owners, it’s crucial to be aware of how seemingly small water issues at your property can have an immediate impact to utility costs and lead to significant financial losses and other complications. This will become even more important as rates continue to rise over the next decade. So, where do you start? How do you best protect your assets value and NOI? …
Flapper Replacements – An Outdated Solution?
Did you know that a single leaking toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day? In Calgary, that translates into over $1,000 of water waste annually, from only one toilet. Regardless of the Canadian city in which you own or manage property, these types of leaks have a major financial impact. Toilet leaks are sneakier than you might expect. Most leaks start off invisible, even to the trained eye. As time goes by, these small unnoticeable trickles turn into complete parts failure and often contribute to alarming, unexpected water bill costs, well over budget.
For years, the gold standard for preventing toilet issues and leaks was the replacement of worn-out parts. The flapper, a rubber valve at the bottom of the toilet tank, is the most common contributor to these leaks. Over time, flappers become warped, cracked or coated with mineral deposits, preventing a proper seal and causing continuous water flow into the bowl. Regular flapper maintenance has been a simple yet effective way to prevent these leaks from occurring and progressing leaks. While this method proved effective, and generated major water savings, it raised the question: How do properties proactively stop leaks before they began, and eliminate that water loss altogether.
Moving Towards Motion – A PROACTIVE solution
Over the last few years, the answer to these questions has arrived with advancements in technology. Automated toilet shut off valves are now the most modern solution designed to tackle toilet leaks in real-time, so you never experience substantial water loss. While motion sensing technology has long been integral to commercial restroom fixtures, automating the bathroom experience in places like offices and institutions, it now offers a valuable tool for enhancing water conservation. By adopting such innovative solutions, property owners can better address potential leaks and contribute to more efficient water use in all settings.
How It Works: Motion sensing technology enables precise water management by controlling the flow of water to the toilet tank. When motion is detected, a valve within the system opens, allowing water to refill the tank after a flush. Once the user leaves and motion ceases, the valve closes, halting any further water flow. This prevents continuous leakage, which often results from flapper issues, and significantly reduces water waste. By eliminating ongoing leaks without altering user habits or fixture use, this technology offers effective real-time water conservation. With its ability to cut water waste by over 30% and maintain those savings over a 10+ year period, it represents a significant advancement in managing toilet leaks and supporting overall water conservation efforts. These modern solutions can contribute to substantial water savings and help protect properties from expensive damage, promoting both environmental and economic benefits.
Motion Sensing Devices & Toilet Overflows:
If you’re dealing with water loss or overflowing toilets and want to protect your property while saving on costs, reach out to us. Water Matrix offers property owners in all asset classes a premium version of the automated shut off valve, LeakPRO®. Our device can significantly reduce water waste and prevent leaks immediately after installation, enhancing your property’s appeal and financial performance.
For more information or to request a LeakPRO® sample, email us at sales@watermatrix.com.
We’re also happy to assist with traditional repairs or a free audit to explore further water-saving opportunities. Let’s find a way to solve your water cost issues for good!
WATER MATRIX
Written By: Ryan Verrette – Executive Vice President