When high water consumption had a simple explanation

The customer noticed an unusually high and continuous water consumption. The data showed a steady flow corresponding to a leak rate of 27.33 litres per minute (3,500 litres per hour). This is a level that, over time, can lead to significant water losses if left unresolved. 

Identifying the source of the issue required a careful review of the property and its water systems. The cause was not immediately obvious, as the water was not leaking visibly and the day-to-day operations appeared normal. While the investigation was ongoing, the data continued to show a constant flow, clearly indicating that action was needed. 

Over the course of approximately one month, the leak resulted in a direct water loss of around 1.6 million litres, corresponding to a cost of approximately €5,300. Eventually, the issue was traced back to the outdoor water outlet system used for irrigation and yard cleaning, where a valve had not been fully closed and allowed water to flow continuously. 

According to the customer, this irrigation system is typically not actively used or regularly checked during the winter months. Without continuous monitoring, the leak might have remained unnoticed until the system was reactivated in spring, potentially as late as April. 

At the same leak rate, this would have resulted in a total water loss of approximately 14.4 million litres, corresponding to an estimated cost of €31,800. By identifying and fixing the issue early, the customer avoided a prolonged period of unnecessary water use and significantly higher costs. 
Once the valve was properly closed, water consumption dropped immediately, confirming that the issue had been resolved. The customer was very satisfied with the outcome and with gaining a clear understanding of both the cause and the potential impact of the leak. 

This case illustrates how continuous monitoring helps detect abnormal water use early and how timely action can prevent small, easily overlooked issues from turning into long-term water losses, especially in seasonal systems.