T-Mobile US teamed with water network monitoring company Fluid Conservation Systems (FCS) to improve leak detection across ageing US water infrastructure, deploying IoT-powered sensors that aim to reduce the loss of treated drinking water.

FCS will integrate T-Mobile’s Business IoT services to enhance data transmission from its cellular-connected acoustic detectors. The technology enables water utilities to detect and locate leaks in real time, preventing infrastructure damage and reducing costs.

The company’s loggers attach externally to water pipes and monitor for noises that indicate potential leaks. This automated approach offers continuous monitoring, reducing the need for manual inspections. Using T-Mobile’s IoT and widespread connectivity coverage, the sensors will be able to transmit data from remote areas.

“Water utilities across the country struggle with aging infrastructure, hidden leaks, and limited resources,” explained Beth Powell, president of FCS. “We’re essentially listening for leaks overnight, so our customers can wake up each morning knowing exactly where to focus their efforts.”

Indeed, the operator’s statement cited a report by the American Society of Civil Engineers revealing that 33.3 trillion gallons of treated water are lost annually due to deteriorating infrastructure – enough to supply New York City for more than 91 years.

George Fischer, SVP of sales at T-Mobile Business Group, hailed the partnership as “a new standard in water management” that will prove critical for “conserving vital resources”.