Water main break rate continues downward trend

In 2021, South Australia recorded the lowest number of water main incidents for the past four years, with the impact of weather on the state’s soils continuing to be the main contributor, and ongoing investment into water network management helping to reduce the frequency and impact of breaks and leaks.

3614 water main leaks and breaks were reported in 2021* across SA Water’s 27,000-kilometre network, compared to 3749 in 2020. These figures include everything from major breaks to minor pipe leaks, damp patches and trickles on the road.

SA Water General Manager of Sustainable Infrastructure Amanda Lewry said in Adelaide in particular, reactive clay soils moving during the transition from hot and dry seasons to wet and cool, and 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,” Amanda said.

“This is compared to 2018 and 2019 when the state experienced searing hot temperatures and below average rainfall, so when it did rain, the abruptness of the event had an increased impact on water mains, with break rate figures in these years closer to 4000.

“The less challenging conditions in 2021 coupled with our sustained focus on driving customer outcomes by reducing the impact of water main breaks, were what led to an improved water main incident rate.

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

“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 Bureau of Meteorology’s annual National Performance Report (NPR): urban water utilities continues to confirm SA Water’s network as one of the best performing in Australia.

The 2020-21 results show South Australians experienced 13.3 water main breaks or leaks per 100 kilometres of pipe, which is lower than the average of 18.9 and better than more than half of comparable-sized Australian water utilities (with 100,000 or more customers).

*Figures for 2021 are for water main leaks and break up to 31 December 2021, based on the information available to SA Water at this time. Figures cited in this media release may change due to end of month variations and alterations to reporting processes.

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