How can performing a water audit benefit a public water supply?

Performing a water audit is a critical practice for public water suppliers as it focuses on systematically assessing and managing water use and losses within the distribution system. The primary benefit is that it effectively identifies areas where water may be lost through leaks, maintenance issues, or inefficiencies in the system. By addressing these problems, a water audit helps reduce water losses, which directly translates to significant savings in operational costs and resource management.

Additionally, by minimizing losses, the water supply is utilized more efficiently, enabling the utility to serve existing customers better without the immediate need to secure additional water sources. This improvement can enhance the financial status of the water utility, leading to increased funding for infrastructure upgrades, better service capabilities, and potentially lower rates for consumers as operational efficiency improves.

In contrast, the other options do not align as directly with the core benefits of conducting a water audit. For example, increasing water pressure may be a result of addressing infrastructure issues but is not a primary focus of a water audit. Expanding service areas and lowering administrative costs may incorporate broader strategies beyond simply auditing water use and losses. Thus, reducing water losses and improving financial status encapsulates the essential purpose and benefit of a water audit for public water systems.