As summer draws nearer, building managers need to prepare for more than rising temperatures, as several areas are projected to experience below normal precipitation. “These areas are likely to face serious water-related challenges,” says Klaus Reichardt, CEO and Founder of Waterless Co., Inc. “Agriculture, local water supplies, and even public health could be impacted. One of the most effective responses is to prevent water loss. Fortunately, advances in AI make that much easier.”
In the United States, approximately 14 to 20 per cent of treated drinking water is lost to water loss before ever reaching a consumer. Typically, this is caused by leaks, aging infrastructure, and inefficiencies, which worsen drought conditions.
According to Reichardt, AI can help building owners and facility managers reduce water loss in several keyways, with:
Smart leak detection: AI-powered sensors continuously monitor plumbing systems and detect abnormal flow patterns that signal leaks, often identifying problems long before routine inspections would.
Predictive maintenance: By analyzing historical performance data, AI can forecast when pipes, fixtures, or irrigation systems are likely to fail, allowing repairs before leaks occur.
Real-time water monitoring: AI systems track water consumption in real time and flag unusual spikes that may indicate hidden leaks or equipment malfunctions.
Restroom fixture analysis: Because restrooms account for a significant share of water use in commercial buildings, AI can evaluate existing fixtures and recommend lower-consumption options – or even no-water alternatives – such as waterless urinals.
Smart irrigation: AI-driven irrigation systems adjust watering schedules based on weather forecasts, soil conditions, and plant needs, eliminating overwatering, which is one of the largest sources of waste in commercial landscapes.
Automated shutoffs: When abnormal flow or pressure is detected, AI systems can automatically shut off water to affected areas, preventing minor leaks from becoming major losses.
Occupancy-based optimization: AI can adjust water usage based on building occupancy patterns, reducing consumption during low-use periods without manual oversight.
Water audit analysis: AI can quickly analyze utility data and benchmark a building’s water use against comparable properties, identifying hidden inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement.
“The common thread of these strategies is that they shift owners and managers from a reactive approach to a proactive one,” says Reichardt. “When it comes to protecting water resources, being proactive isn’t optional, it’s essential.”
