Water Use: Slowing the Flow

Water has long been taken for granted as a resource in institutional and commercial facilities. It has been inexpensive and plentiful, and facilities have had few incentives to conserve it.

But the situation is changing rapidly. Population growth, economic development and prolonged regional droughts are forcing municipal water systems to seek ways to reduce the demand for water. Faced with rising rates and possible use restrictions, maintenance and engineering managers must look for ways to reduce water use within their facilities without hampering operations.