A Belmont school has joined a free state government water-saving initiative after a weeks-long water leak led to an unexpectedly large bill.
Clairvaux Catholic school has partnered with Barwon Water through the Victorian Government Schools Water Efficiency Program (SWEP) to install a data-logging system that provides same-day information on the school’s hourly water usage.
School administration officer Angela Hatch said if the data-logger had been installed when the leak occurred the problem would have been averted.
“Recently we had a large hidden water leak under one of our classrooms, which went on for weeks undetected. This impacted both our building and our water bill,” Ms Hatch said.
“Repairing the leak earlier would have saved money and water, so we’re now looking forward to the benefits of real time monitoring of water consumption.
“We are excited to see the benefits that come from being part of this program. As we all know, every drop counts.”
Through SWEP, Barwon Water also provided over $1300 to Clairvaux to help with the bill and the cost of repairs.
Barwon Water general manager of customers, community and strategy Laura Kendall said she was pleased the program could help another school save water and money.
“With our growing population and changing climate, we’re asking the community to really value water and use it wisely,” Ms Kendall said.
“Barwon Water is using digital technology like data-loggers to help schools detect and repair leaks, which can make a big difference in saving water, as can many other simple actions in our day-to-day lives, like sticking to a four-minute shower, turning the tap off while brushing your teeth, and watering your garden early in the morning or in the evening to minimise water loss due to evaporation.
“Managing our water in a more integrated and sustainable way will help us preserve this precious resource.”
Visit www.myswep.com.au or email swep@barwonwater.vic.gov.au for more information on the Schools Water Efficiency Program.
