If you own a multi-family property, you know how expensive water consumption can be. And like many landlords, you're probably looking for a way to lessen utility usage and lower water costs.
Water submetering systems are valuable devices to identify how much water tenants consume. They help monitor water usage in apartment complexes, condominium communities, and other multifamily properties. These provide several benefits to landlords and property managers, such as accurate billing and reduced utility costs.
In this article, we will explore what water submetering is, its various types, and the advantages it offers to a multifamily community.
What Is Water Submetering?
Water submetering refers to secondary meters installed after the main water meter. These individual meters measure the actual water usage of each tenant in multifamily communities or commercial properties.
With a water submetering system, property owners can accurately bill residents based on their actual water consumption. It promotes fairness and accountability among tenants. It also helps property managers understand where water is being used across different residential and commercial units. This information empowers them to find ways to reduce a property's water consumption and better manage the community's water.
What Are the Different Types of Water Submetering Systems?
Water submetering systems come in different types to cater to a property's unique needs. Understanding these options can help property landlords and managers make informed decisions about which system best fits their requirements.
Mechanical Water Submeters
Mechanical water submeters are the most traditional type of utility submetering. They monitor water flow using an impeller that spins every time the water passes through the meter. This flow rate is directly proportional to the blade's rotational speed. That means the higher the water use, the faster the rotation is.
Mechanical water meters are popular for their simplicity, durability, and cost-efficiency. However, they lack detailed data reports and remote reading capabilities. They also tend to clog up when the water is dirty or contains large particles.
Smart Water Submeters
Smart water submeters feature wireless sensors, digital displays, and connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The adaptation of Internet of Things or IoT solutions allows real-time data tracking and remote monitoring.
Smart meters can also send alerts for potential leaks or abnormal usage patterns in a multifamily community. They are ideal for landlords looking to optimize water usage and reduce costs through advanced technology.
The major downside of smart water submetering systems is their steep upfront price. However, most property owners achieve ROI and increased cost savings within a few months.
Ultrasonic Water Submeters
Ultrasonic water submeters use sound waves to measure water flow. They send ultrasonic signals across the pipe and measure the time it takes for the sound waves to travel back. These make them highly accurate and effective in managing water flow in complex plumbing systems.
Additionally, this type of water utility submetering lacks moving parts, which minimizes wear and tear and reduces maintenance needs.
But similar to smart water submetering, ultrasonic systems can be very expensive, especially for landlords of small or average-sized multifamily community.
Differential Pressure Water Submeters
As their name suggests, these water submetering solutions measure the pressure difference across a constriction in the pipe, such as an orifice plate. This pressure drop is directly related to the water flow, which enables the meters to accurately track water consumption.
Differential pressure water metering is ideally suited to industrial applications where high-pressure water systems are common. It is less effective in a residential or commercial property. Additionally, it is sensitive to installation. The length of the meter run and the transmitter location can greatly impact its accuracy.
Electromagnetic Water Submeters
This water utility submetering type uses a magnetic field and the principle of electromagnetic induction to measure water usage. The faster the water flows, the greater the voltage generated.
Electromagnetic water meters are highly accurate in applications where water contains a significant amount of particulates. They do not cause blockage, unlike in other types of water meters. However, they are unable to measure pure water due to the lack of ions.
What Are the Benefits of Smart Water Submetering?
Curious to learn more about smart water submetering solutions? Below are the benefits of these systems:
Improved Billing Accuracy and Transparency
Smart water submeters provide accurate water measurements of individual units within a multifamily property. They enable property owners and managers to charge tenants based on their actual usage.
For example, tenants who leave the tap running or shower frequently receive higher water billing. But as soon as their water consumption drops, they can expect lower water utility costs.
Precise data from smart water submeters promotes a fair utility billing environment. It ultimately builds trust between landlords and tenants.
Enhanced Water Usage Data and Analytics
Submetering water using smart devices helps property owners gain access to real-time water consumption data. This information is invaluable for identifying usage patterns and managing water resources effectively.
Landlords and property managers can also take advantage of analytics for forecasting future water consumption. They are essential for budget planning and resource allocation.
Early Leak Detection and Preventive Maintenance
One of the best features of smart water submeters is their ability to identify leaks and other irregularities in water flow. Early detection allows for immediate action, preventing costly repairs of plumbing systems.
Smart systems have a proactive approach to maintenance. This not only saves water but also reduces potential building damage from unchecked shower and toilet leaks.
Increased Cost Savings and ROI
For many property owners, the water bill is among their largest monthly expenses. Submetering water encourages more responsible consumption. It lowers usage, wastage, and utility costs, which can help landlords achieve a faster return on investment (ROI).
Positive Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Implementing smart water submetering solutions contributes positively to environmental conservation efforts. By promoting efficient water use and reducing waste, these systems help landlords and managers minimize their ecological footprint. Additionally, they enhance the the property's marketability to prospective tenants who value green living.
How to Install A Smart Water Submetering System?
After learning the benefits of smart water submeters, you probably want one installed to your property. Here's how property owners can approach the installation process:
1. Assess Your Property’s Needs
Begin by evaluating your property’s specific needs. Consider the number of units, existing water infrastructure, and the main objectives you aim to achieve with water submetering. These may include cost reduction, leak detection, or tenant billing.
Understanding these factors will guide your decisions throughout the installation process.
2. Research Smart Water Submetering Providers
Once you've defined your requirements, research various providers of smart water submetering systems. Make sure to select a qualified company with a proven track record since you're dealing with the specialized nature of water submetering. Check their credentials, customer reviews, and the quality of customer support.
Additionally, consider the installation costs and features, such as connectivity options and data management capabilities.
3. Plan the Water Submeter Installation
After selecting the ideal water submeter provider, you can plan for the actual installation.
First, decide on the placement of submeters. Make sure you can easily access them for maintenance and monitoring.
Next, schedule the installation in a way that minimizes disruption to tenants in your townhouse or apartment complex.
Then, educate tenants about the process and benefits of the new submetering system to ensure their support.
4. Decide Between Professional Installation and DIY
Consider whether to hire professional technicians or undertake the installation yourself. Professional installation can be more reliable and less stressful, but DIY may reduce costs if you have the necessary skills. Weigh the pros and cons based on the complexity of the existing system and your technical ability.
5. Test the Water Submetering System
Before the system goes live, you must thoroughly test it to ensure it functions correctly. Check if the meters track water usage accurately and if the data is correct. Resolve any issues to avoid problems after installation.
6. Install and Activate the Smart Water Submeter
After thorough testing, you can proceed with the actual installation of the smart water submeters.
If you went the DIY route, follow the manufacturer's guidelines carefully to ensure each unit is installed correctly. Once installed, activate the system and monitor it for initial performance to confirm everything is working as expected.
7. Train Staff on Maintenance and Upkeep
Finally, train your property management staff on the new water submetering system. Focus on how to monitor usage, handle data, and perform basic troubleshooting. Proper training ensures that your team can manage the submetering system effectively.
How DrizzleX Can Help You
DrizzleX allows you to detect hidden leaks, such as running toilets and leaky faucets, to stop millions of gallons of waste each year. It also alerts you to excessive water overuse by tenants. Typically, buildings that use DrizzleX reduce their water bills by 25-45% or more.
And you can expect a pretty quick return on investment (ROI). Buildings with DrizzleX save enough water to cover the entire cost of DrizzleX within about 9 months on average.
Usage Reports
One of DrizzleX's solutions is the “Tenant’s Overuse” report. Since many people aren't really aware of their excessive water usage, an accurate report can be very helpful in preventing unnecessary expenses. Using the reports, you can communicate with your tenants about their water consumption habits, and back it up with precise data too.
Leak Detection
Leaks can be sneaky because they aren't always visible. With property inspection, you can see the obvious ones. But, silent leaks will only show up on your utility bills. DrizzleX gives you water control because you can monitor the water flow in your building.
The system will notify you about where and how much water is being lost.
E-mail Notifications
Once DrizzleX spots the leak, it will notify you via email. The message you receive will include all the details about the exact apartment and fixture that is the culprit, how many gallons were used, how much it will cost you if the problem isn’t fixed, and even possible causes for the water waste and how to fix it.
Billing
DrizzleX also allows you to bill your tenants. Tenants conserve water when they are the ones paying for it. You can easily create water bills based on accurate water consumption and bill them fairly.
FAQs About Water Submetering
Which Properties Can Have Water Submeters?
Water submeters can be installed in a wide variety of properties. But they are especially beneficial in multifamily residential buildings, such as apartment complexes, condominiums, and townhouses. They are also suitable for commercial properties where different tenants may have varying water usage patterns.
Can You Install Water Meters in Existing Properties?
Yes, water meters can be installed in existing properties. The installation process may cause a brief disruption to the water supply. It's important for property owners to consider the layout and accessibility of current plumbing to ensure minimal disruption and cost efficiency.
How Much Does Water Submetering Cost?
The cost of water submetering systems varies depending on the type of meters, the property size, and the complexity of the installation. Generally, expect to pay from $100 to $400 per unit, with additional installation costs. Despite the upfront investment, the potential savings on water bills and the added property value can justify the cost over time.
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