Study of the ways and methods of reducing non-revenue water

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Civil Engineering, Arak Branch, Islamic Azad University, Arāk, Iran

2 Department of Civil Engineering, Arak Branch, Islamic Azad University, Arak, Iran

3 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Arak Branch, Islamic Azad University, Arāk, Iran.

4 Department of Civil Engineering, Yasooj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Yasooj, Iran.

5 Department of Water Engineering, Kermanshah Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kermanshah, Iran.

Abstract

Objective The main objective of this research is to study and examine the methods and approaches for reducing non-revenue water.
 
Method: This study adopted a systematic approach to identify and evaluate strategies for reducing non-revenue water. Eleven potential strategies were identified, and the Copeland method was used to prioritize them. Results showed that leakage management in pipelines and connections—including active and inactive control, continuous inspection, monitoring, and pipe repair—was the highest priority. This methodology provides a clear framework to focus on the most effective interventions.
 
Results: The analysis revealed that pipeline and connection leakages are the most significant contributors to non-revenue water. The prioritization using the Copeland method showed that leakage management measures—including inactive leakage control, active leakage control, continuous inspection, leakage monitoring, and pipe replacement or repair—were ranked highest among all identified strategies. Other strategies, such as pump control to prevent water hammer and pressure waves, the use of flexible fittings to reduce physical damage, and the recording of all information related to customers, properties, connections, meters, and subsequent changes in customer records, were assigned equal priority. These strategies were ranked lower compared to leakage management measures.
 
Conclusions: This study evaluated strategies to reduce non-revenue water, highlighting leakage from pipelines and connections as the primary cause. Effective leakage management—including active and inactive control, continuous inspection, monitoring, and pipe repair—is essential, while other measures such as pump control, flexible fittings, and data management offer supportive but lower-priority benefits. Prioritizing targeted leakage management is the most effective approach for reducing water loss and enhancing operational efficiency

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Advanced Technologies in Water Efficiency
Volume 6, Issue 1
February 2026
Pages 1-24

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History

  • Receive Date: 07 February 2025
  • Revise Date: 24 May 2025
  • Accept Date: 14 September 2025

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