In an effort to stem the costly tide of residential water leaks, Miami-Dade Commissioners Raquel Regalado and Roberto Gonzalez have teamed up with Moen and Rebuilding Together Miami-Dade Inc. for a cutting-edge demonstration project. The initiative, announced last Wednesday, seeks to install Flo Smart Water Monitor and Shut-off devices in select single-family homes across the county. These devices are designed to not only detect the tiniest of leaks but also to shut off water flow automatically in response, potentially saving homeowners from water damage and exorbitant water bills.
According to a statement obtained by Miami-Dade County, the EPA has estimated that American homes lose close to one trillion gallons of water annually due to preventable leaks. When you factor in that water damage is more likely to occur than fire or theft, the thrust behind this project becomes clear; water leaks are not just a drip in the bucket but an issue causing $15 billion in annual insurance payouts.
Over the course of a four-month observation period, the demonstration project will assess the impact of these smart devices on water consumption and billing. This high-tech tool monitors the water pressure and flow in real-time to quickly identify leaks, no matter how insignificant they may seem. "Too often unexpected or unknown water leaks in homes result in a high financial burden for homeowners," Commissioner Regalado told Miami-Dade County. Her sentiment echoes the concerns of many residents who have faced sudden and steep costs from water-related damages.
Commissioner Gonzalez emphasized the role of AI in this technological solution, highlighting how these devices can preempt and prevent leak-related damages. "Technology that leverages AI exists that can not only detect leaks, but can help prevent them from even happening," he explained, underscoring the project's forward-thinking approach. The Flo Smart Water Monitors, by being installed directly on the main water lines of the participating homes, will play a critical part in warding off unanticipated leaks and the resulting financial strain they can exert on households.
The collaboration between the county and local non-profits like Rebuilding Together has brought this project to fruition in Districts 7 and 11. Jeff Barnes, Senior Vice President of Moen, threw in his two cents, stating, "Water damage accounts for almost 25% of insurance claims nation-wide," thereby driving home the relevacy of the project. JS Rashid, Vice President of the Board of Directors of Rebuilding Together Miami-Dade, expressed gratitude for the support which enables continued aid to homeowners in need.
While weather-related flooding is not within the scope of this project, the endeavor aims to send a ripple through the industry, supporting legislations to encourage leak mitigation technology and protection for homeowners. The data gathered through this hands-on project could potentially pave the way for broader policy changes, diminishing both water wastage and the financial impact of water-related insurance claims.
