Why Should Water Utility Companies Consider Using Smart Technology?
According to the United Nations, around two billion people experience water stress. Besides, a third of the world’s biggest underground water systems are also now in distress. Because of this, water utility companies should start exploring the use of smart technology.
HVAC expert, Morconnect, explains that smart technology offers a lot of benefits. In general, it enhances efficiency, increases revenue, and improves customer service.
In the water sector, some of the latest smart systems and devices are the following:
– Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)
– Smart Meters and Smart Valves
What is AMI?
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) is a system that allows faster data transfer between customers and utility companies. AMI gathers more accurate data, enables contactless billing, and improves customer engagement.
Utility companies can also detect leaks and damages earlier with the help of AMI. It also monitors the water balance and synchronizes water meters across all channels.
Smart Meters And Smart Valves
Smart meters are useful for people who want to track their water consumption in real-time. The device also sends notifications to the user when it is being tampered with.
Smart water meters enable faster and easier communication between customers and service providers. With the help of an app, both parties can better regulate and manage water consumption.
Furthermore, the use of smart valves can help people save more money on their water bills. For example, Morconnect SMART VALVES compress air pockets and stabilize water pressure. These result in more accurate water meter readings.
Here are five reasons why water utility companies should consider smart technology:
1. Expands business partnerships
The pioneers of developing AMI include private companies and service providers. They innovate products and solutions resulting in the evolution of smart metering. Nowadays, various sectors take interest in AMI because of the many benefits that it can offer.
2. Maintenance of water infrastructure
Some features of smart technology include more accurate data and real-time monitoring. They help utility companies identify issues and problems as early as possible. This reduces financial losses for both the customer and service provider.
Besides, smart technology also invites more investment in the maintenance of water infrastructure. These investments are vital to improving the current state of our water supply.
3. Develops skills
Changing from standard to smart technology requires extensive skills. As technology advances over time, it also becomes more demanding. The skills needed may be beyond basic plumbing skills. They include information technology and communication skills as well.
A lot of solutions companies provide professional help when it comes to AMI. Installing smart water meters and smart valves is best left to professionals. Ontario homeowners who wish to upgrade their standard devices may contact Morconnect. They have a team of expert HVAC technicians who knows how to install smart water systems.
4. Improves customer service and attitude
One of the main benefits of using smart water technology is better customer service. Real-time monitoring and early problem detection enable utility companies to notify customers immediately. If we can identify problems early, both parties can save more money. Utility companies can also respond to complaints and inquiries better. Then, they can provide fast and satisfactory solutions for their customers.
5. Safeguards consumers
The use of the latest smart water systems can help improve water management. We can use the collected data to enhance existing policies to better protect our water supply. We can avoid water wastage and at the same time, prevent contaminants from reaching our homes.
Conclusion
In general, the use of smart technology demands high capital. But, its long-term advantages outweigh its initial purchasing costs. The use of smart water systems can offer a lot of benefits for utility companies and end-users alike.
Besides, transparency in water consumption data results in a decrease in water consumption. Consumers will be more conscious of their water usage if they have access to the information.
