Water Main Break Rates in the USA and Canada

This technical report presents a comprehensive study of water main break rates in the USA and Canada, focusing on the condition of the water infrastructure and the implications for asset management. The report utilizes data from 802 utilities, covering nearly 400,000 miles of water mains, to analyze break rates and their correlation with pipe materials, age, and diameter. It discusses the deterioration of water mains, which poses risks to water delivery and infrastructure integrity. The study reveals that utilities are losing approximately 11% of their water due to leakage and highlights the need for timely pipe replacements. The findings indicate that break rates have decreased by 20% over the past six years, with a significant number of breaks occurring annually. The report also examines trends in pipe materials, noting a shift away from cast iron and asbestos cement towards PVC and ductile iron. Overall, this study serves as a critical resource for utilities in planning and managing water infrastructure effectively.