Programs and Assistance

City West Water has a number of programs to assist our industrial, commercial and institutional customers to save water and energy.

Fire Sprinkler Program

A project supported by City West Water, South East Water, Yarra Valley Water and the Victorian Department of Sustainability and Environment, and led by Victoria’s Plumbing Industry Commission, has developed a Guide to Fire Sprinkler System Water Saving based on 15 case study reports.

Each year about 500 million litres of drinking water is being consumed as a result of testing and alteration of fire sprinkler systems in Melbourne. While fire sprinkler system testing is essential for fire protection, the test procedures reflect an earlier era in which plentiful and cheap water was taken for granted. It is estimated that at least half of the water consumption arising from maintenance of fire sprinkler systems can be cut at many properties, without compromising the operational readiness of the system.

The Guide details seven main opportunities for water saving:

• pressure settings adjustment projects
• adoption of AS1851-2005 and monthly testing
• pressure reduction projects
• recirculation of fire sprinkler water
• recycling (capture and further use) of fire sprinkler water
• better zoning of fire sprinkler installations
• better management of fire sprinkler draindowns and recharging.

For more information on how you can save water through the Fire Sprinkler Program please contact Sophea Eng on (03) 9313 8367.