Leaks and bursts in the pipeline

YARRA Valley Water is gearing up for an increase in burst water mains and leaks this summer.
Managing director of Yarra Valley Water Tony Kelly said most soil in Yarra Valley Water’s service area was composed of expansive clay, which meant that cooler temperatures and heavy rainfall could cause the soil to expand, pulling pipes out of alignment.
Mr Kelly said similarly hot weather and low rainfall caused the soil to dry up and contract, again causing pipes to shift, much in the same way causing cracking in homes over the summer months.
“While recent rainfall has provided a welcome boost to Melbourne’s water storages, the dramatic shift in weather conditions after 13 years of drought is quite a concern for the preservation of our water mains,” says Mr Kelly.
“The situation could become more serious if we see a return to typical hot and dry weather over summer, as pipes will shift again, however we are well-prepared and well-resourced in anticipation of these conditions.”
Yarra Valley Water asks residents to be part of the response by calling in faults quickly and accurately through Yarra Valley Water on 13 1721 or 13 WATER (92837).