Intermittent Water Supply vs. Pressurized Networks
Danny Rosenbluth, AQS Chief Business Development Officer
Intermittent water supply is draining utility budgets.
The transition to pressurized networks must start. Now let’s be honest about the reality facing many utilities still operating with intermittent water supply (IWS): It’s driving water loss, accelerating pipe failures, and making it nearly impossible to run a modern, data‑driven operation.
In my Role, meeting utilities and service providers in different world regions, I see the same pattern everywhere: If a utility wants to reduce NRW in a measurable, financially meaningful way, the shift to a fully pressurized network is unavoidable. And the first step is understanding the true condition of the network.
1) Pressurized networks unlock real leak intelligence IWS hides leakage for hours at a time. With continuous supply, AQS acoustic sensors finally deliver the real‑time, high‑resolution leak detection utilities need to cut NRW and reduce OPEX.
2) Pressure cycling is costing utilities millions Every on/off cycle stresses pipes, increases the risk of bursts, and inflates emergency repair costs. Continuous supply stabilizes the system and reduces avoidable failures.
3) Digital transformation depends on hydraulic stability AI‑driven leak detection, DMAs, pressure management, and smart metering only deliver ROI when the network is consistently pressurized. Without stability, utilities are investing in tools that can’t perform.
4) The commercial case is clear Utilities that begin the transition see: Lower NRW Lower operational cost Fewer bursts Higher customer satisfaction Better regulatory alignment This isn’t a future vision — it’s happening today. Where utilities should start.
We work with our different partners to help utilities: Review the current network condition Identify the fastest wins for NRW reduction Build a practical, phased plan to move from intermittent to continuous supply Monitor the pressurized network with AQS sensors to generate the leak intelligence needed to keep the NRW levels low.
The technology is ready. The benefits are proven. The only question is when utilities choose to start.
If your utility is evaluating this shift, we are always open to a conversation about what a realistic transition plan looks like.