Dallas Water Utilities (DWU) has slashed water losses by 1.6 million gallons daily through aggressive pipeline repairs and cutting-edge leak detection technology.
The utility, which serves 2.6 million people in Dallas and 27 surrounding communities, reported the reduction to state regulators in its 2024 annual water audit.
The improvements come as aging infrastructure threatens water systems nationwide. DWU’s proactive approach could serve as a model for other utilities grappling with deteriorating pipelines and mounting water loss.
The utility manages over 5,077 miles of water mains covering 700 square miles. Its Leak Detection Program employs advanced technologies to identify non-surfacing and hard-to-detect leaks throughout the system every 2.5 years.
DWU typically replaces 44 miles of pipeline annually. Over the past decade, crews have replaced approximately 440 miles of aging infrastructure.
In the last fiscal year alone, workers completed roughly 3,000 pipeline repairs. The utility prioritizes repairs based on factors such as service interruptions, fire protection needs, and the severity of water loss.
Still, emergency repairs take precedence over scheduled maintenance. When scheduling work, DWU also considers resource availability, customer impact, and weather conditions.
The 2024 water audit showed total real losses decreased by 13.77 gallons per connection daily compared to 2023. These figures reflect DWU’s compliance with Texas Water Development Board regulations requiring annual water loss reporting.
In August 2023, The Dallas Express reported on a broken water main that leaked millions of gallons of chlorinated water into the Great Trinity Forest, creating a 20 to 30-foot-deep swamp and damaging the natural ecosystem. The leak had reportedly been ongoing for five years before Dallas officials addressed the issue.
Residents can report suspected leaks through Dallas 311’s website or mobile app. The enhanced reporting system, available for iOS and Android devices, helps DWU respond quickly to emerging issues.
The utility faces ongoing challenges in maintaining its vast infrastructure network. Water mains range from 0.75 to 108 inches in diameter, requiring specialized equipment and expertise for different repair scenarios.
DWU’s systematic approach combines preventive maintenance with responsive repairs. The strategy appears to be paying dividends as water loss rates continue declining across the sprawling service area.