Water Report 2012

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MAY 2012


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FIJI Water has always been ahead of its time. After filtering through volcanic rock over hundreds of years, rs, every drop collects in an artesian aquifer deep within the earth, where it’s preserved and protected. d. And just as our water is protected, we’re committed to protecting all that’s pristine and natural on Earth. th. Which is why we’re a proud member of 1% for the Planet, a network of businesses that contribute 1% of sales to environmental efforts worldwide. So you can enjoy what’s pure and perfect, now and forever. er.

fijiwater.com



WATER REPORT

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT OF THE BERMUDA SUN MAY 11, 2012 PAGE 1

Safeguarding our precious resource BY AMANDA DALE adale@bermudasun.bm

Water is a precious commodity, but we all take it for granted. After several months of dry weather, we are now approaching the summer with less than half the average rainfall for the year so far. In the first quarter of 2012, Bermuda recorded just 8.61 inches of rainfall — less

than half that of the 18.41 inch average. More than a third of our water supply comes from rain, but we cannot rely on the weather. As we head into the summer heat, the message is clear — we must do all we can to reduce usage and to conserve our water supply. In this supplement you will find numerous tips and advice from the Ministry

of Public Works and Department of Health to ensure you have a constant clean and safe water supply. Michael Weeks, Minister of Public Works, stresses to the public to “use your water supply wisely and remember that every drop saved helps maintain Bermuda’s water table”. One of the most important things you can do is to check your tank regularly.

This will enable you to order a load from a water trucker in ample time, without scrambling around for a delivery in an ‘emergency’. We also bring you advice on how to prime your pump, how to monitor your water tank levels from the comfort of you home, and new water-efficient products. We hope you will have a pleasant, ‘drought-free’ summer. ■

Inside this supplement

Conservation tips, from the Ministry of Public Works Pages 2-3 Avoid lifting that tank top, with the Aquatel ‘Wireless’ Water Level Indicator Pages 4-5 Truckers urge public responsibility Pages 6-7 How we ‘make water’ in modern-day Bermuda, by Darren De Silva of Waternow Pages 7-8 US fixtures can make WaterSense, bringing more efficiency to our bathrooms Page 9 How Bermuda Waterworks delivers fresh, clean water to your home Pages 10-11 How to prime your pump, by Sacha Bearden of Baptiste Ltd Page 11 Waterproofing and pressure washing services by Renew Ltd Pages 12-13 Government’s conservation plea Pages 13-14 Safety tips from the Department of Health Pages 15-16

Bermuda Sun 19 Elliott Street, Hamilton, Bermuda HM 10 Tel 295-3902 Fax 292-5597 E-mail feedback@bermudasun.bm This special supplement is produced and published by Bermuda Sun Limited and printed in Bermuda by Island Press Limited.

Publisher Randy French President Lisa Beauchamp Editorial and layout Amanda Dale Advertising Sales Carlita Burgess (Deputy Advertising Manager) Olga French, Diane Gilbert, Claire James Creative Services Christina White, Colby Medeiros, Shay Ford Circulation & Distribution Nick Tavares

The Bermuda Sun publishes twice weekly and is a subsidiary of MediaHouse Limited. We are members of the Inland Press Association, International Newspaper Marketing Association and the Newspaper Association of America. We are located at: 19 Elliott Street, Hamilton HM 10; P.O. Box HM 1241, Hamilton HM FX Tel: 295-3902 Fax: 292-5597. Visit our website: www.bermudasun.bm

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2 ■ MAY 11, 2012

WATER REPORT: A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

THE BERMUDA SUN

Check your tank regularly BY AMANDA DALE adale@bermudasun.bm

Check your tank regularly — that’s the message from the Bermuda Government as we head into the summer. Failure to monitor the water level in your tank can not only lead to you running out of water but to damage to your pump, incurring extra expense which could easily have been avoided. Tarik Christopher, principal civil engineer for water at the Ministry of Public Works, recommends people set a datum point or line at which they should order in more water. In the winter he says he checks his tank every few weeks, but in the summer he picks a day where he checks his tank once a week.

■ IMAGE SUPPLIED

MESSAGE: Government mascot Mr Drippy urges residents to regularly check their tanks and their plumbing for any drips. Mr Christopher said islanders are more aware

of conserving water than they used to be, but that

they don’t check their tanks enough. This then results in a peak demand when large numbers of residents run out at the same time. “If we don’t have any rain for three weeks to a month, all of a sudden there’s an instantaneous peak demand,” said Mr Christopher. “This is because the majority of people don’t tend to monitor their tanks, so they all discover their tanks are empty at the same time. “Then they call the truckers saying they need emergency water. “We (Government) have copious amounts of water, but it’s very difficult for the truckers and our outlets to provide that amount of water in a timely manner.” Bermuda is one of the few places in the world that uses a roof catchment and tank system to harvest rainwater.

Demand Our water supply is 41 per cent rainwater, 35 per cent treated groundwater, 12 per cent treated seawater (reverse osmosis), eight per cent groundwater from private wells, and six per cent from small treatment plants. Government produces 200 million gallons of water a year from fresh and brackish ground waters, or lenses. It operates four water treatment plants and manages five reservoirs. The reservoirs are situated at: Tudor Hill, Southampton; Fort Victoria, St George’s; Devon Springs, Devonshire; and there are two at Prospect, Devonshire. Two-thirds of the estimated 21,000 households in Bermuda do not have a well or pumped water supply from a mains, such as that supplied by Bermuda Waterworks. They are therefore depenSee CONSERVATION, page 3


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WATER REPORT: A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

MAY 11, 2012 ■ 3

CONSERVATION Continued from page 2 dent on harvested rainwater in their tanks, but in times of prolonged dry periods, they rely on the 45 water truckers on the island. Government manages water trucker outlets, or bulk filling stations, at: Prospect, Devonshire; Tynes Bay, North Shore; Port Royal, Southampton; and St George’s. Mr Christopher said: “At the moment we are meeting demand as it stands. “Our central trucker outlets are open 24 hoursa-day but if demand gets very high, or instantaneous demand outstrips production, we shut them overnight to replenish the tanks. “The challenge last year was that instantaneous demand was outstripping our ability, and the water truckers’ ability, to meet demand.

Awareness “This year we will do better than last summer, because we have more production and have made some improvements. “The public is more aware of conserving water than it used to be, especially as in the last couple of years we’ve had a dry summer. “But we still get this instantaneous demand because people are not checking their tanks. “So, look in your tank at the level where you would reorder your water, so you can give the water truckers time to deliver to you before you run out. “Have datum points in your tank. “Monitor the tank level

‘If you run out of water you can also burn out your pump, and then a lot of problems will cascade, so always check your tank.’ TARIK CHRISTOPHER

Principal civil engineer for water, Ministry of Public Works

over the summer but don’t order copious amounts, just what you think is necessary. “Each person has to manage their tank to avoid the situation of running out. “If you run out of water you can also burn out your pump, and then a lot of problems will cascade, so always check your tank.” ■

FOR MORE INFORMATION contact the Ministry of Public Works on 278-0570. For water connection, supply problems and emergencies call 297-7637. For advice on ensuring a safe, healthy water supply see pages 15-16. If you have a water quality or safety enquiry, contact the Department of Health at 2784976 or 236-0224.

■ CREATIVE COMMONS PHOTO BY DE BENUTZER: ALEX ANLICKER

PRECIOUS RESOURCE: Don’t let taps run unnecessarily.

Water conservation measures ■ ■ ■

Check your tank level regularly Minimize the number of times you flush the toilet Repair leaking faucets, toilets and water appliances quickly ■ Don’t leave taps running while brushing your teeth/washing your hands/shaving ■ Take a quick shower, not a bath ■ Wash your car with a bucket, not a hose ■ Adjust your washing machine load size or use only when full ■ Minimize watering gardens ■ Wash dishes and vegetables in a basin, not with running water ■ Don’t run the tap to get cool water, keep a pitcher in the fridge ■ Increase the size of your water catchment ■ Install a water meter to monitor consumption.

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4 ■ MAY 11, 2012

WATER REPORT: A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

THE BERMUDA SUN

Indicator brings safety and convenience BY AMANDA DALE adale@bermudasun.bm

■ PHOTOS SUPPLIED

DEVICE: This indicator unit transmits an ultrasonic signal from the ceiling to measure the level of water in your tank. This ceiling also has signs of exploding rebar in the concrete.

Monitoring the water level in your tank is essential during the summer months, but lifting the heavy cover can be tiresome. Building renovations or the ‘landing’ may also make it difficult to see the water clearly. But there is a convenient solution to these problems, and one to make sure you never run out of water again, according to architectural technologist Harrison Isaac. Mr Isaac offers a tank inspection and water report

service through his company, Bermuda Rainwater Management Solutions (BRMS). He also sells devices to help island residents conserve water and maintain a healthy supply. BRMS is the exclusive distributor of the Aquatel ‘Wireless’ Water Level Indicator in Bermuda. This fluid level indicator, produced in New Zealand, can be attached to a marinegrade stainless steel bracket on the roof or slab of your tank. It then sends down an ultrasonic signal which See WATER LEVEL, page 5


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WATER REPORT: A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

WATER LEVEL Continued from page 4 bounces off the water and wirelessly transmits the level to an LCD display unit in your house. The Aquatel indicator can monitor up to six tanks and so is also useful for buildings with a cluster of tanks. The D110 model indicator usually sells for $498 but Mr Isaac is offering island residents a ‘Pre-Drought Season Special’ deal of $398. He said: “In addition to running out of water, if you don’t monitor the water level in your tank you can burn your pump out. “If it is still running it can overheat, and this can then lead to PVC pipes melting, causing problems throughout the system.

Tank tops “You will then have the cost of replacing the pump and parts, and hiring a plumber. “Also, you don’t want to let your water level get so low that you’re sucking up the dirty water, sludge and sediment in the bottom. “But in some homes the tank top is very heavy to lift. In Bermuda our tops have to be too heavy for a child to lift, but at some houses, people are unable to ISAAC lift them. “Or they may be seniors of physically-challenged in some way.” He added: “In about 40 per cent of homes you won’t be able to see the water level because of a landing, or the tank top has moved due to house renovations. “The Aquatel ‘Wireless’

USER-FRIENDLY: The Aquatel D110 Display Unit, from which you can check your tank water level remotely from the comfort of your home. Water Level Indicator provides a safe alternative for individuals who have to check the water level in their tanks on a regular basis. “After a 20-minute installation of the tank sender unit, you can check your water level with the push of one button on the display unit situated in the convenience of your home.” Mr Isaac said with summer approaching, now was an ideal time to have the indicator installed. “If you run out of water it could take days for a water truck delivery, particularly during July and August. “This March was the driest on record, with only 0.79 inches of rainfall recorded.

The trend of dry weather has continued this month with 1.81 inches of rain.” The average rainfall per year in Bermuda is 55.5 inches, averaging 4.63 inches a month. Mr Isaac said: “Bermuda has recorded 8.61 inches of rain this year — less than half of the average for the period. “Water trucking services have already stated their concerns for the coming months as the dry period progresses.” Mr Isaac also offers a professional tank cleaning service and water reports. He and three subcontracted consultants can be hired to undertake a visual inspection for leaks and debris, and to see whether the tank needs cleaning. “In the past two-and-a-half

MAY 11, 2012 ■ 5

years I’ve examined 2,000 tanks, including tanks in the public school system, commercial establishments and tourist accommodations,” he said. “I have found the calcified bones of dead birds, leaves and branches which have fallen through the ‘pineapple’ into the gutter. “We also find oleander leaves, which are poisonous. I sometimes say to people, ‘you wouldn’t give an oleander leaf to a child to chew on, but you allow it to fall into your tank’. “I have even found the calcified remains of a dog at one house. “Construction concrete can also become airborne and fall on top of your roof. It then gets washed down, along with debris from plants and trees. This ends up as sediment. “People need to regularly monitor the sediment levels in their tank. “The tail of a bird can also hang over the gutter so excrement can get washed down and then decay. “By law tanks should be cleaned every five years but you should really be examining your tank twice a year.” The BRMS examination also includes the roof. Costs average $120 an hour, according to the property. This includes a ‘Water Report’ with photographs and water testing for E. coli and other bacteria. BRMS also sells the WISY Floating Suction Filter and the WATTS Reverse Osmosis Kwik-Change IV RO System. ■

FOR MORE INFORMATION contact BRMS at 295-8473 or e-mail info@mybrms.com. Website www.mybrms.com

economical, efficient well water treatment ClearWater’s LB-400/LB-800 series systems can provide 400 to 800 gallons per day from salt or brackish well water. Simple to use, quiet, very energy efficient. “Quite possibly the simplest land-based desalination system on the planet.”

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6 ■ MAY 11, 2012

WATER REPORT: A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

THE BERMUDA SUN

Truckers forced to raise prices ‘If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.’ RUSS FORD

Vice president and spokesman for the Bermuda Water Truckers Association

■ PHOTO SUPPLIED

AT YOUR SERVICE: Bermuda Water Services’ trucks deliver to every parish on the island.

BY AMANDA DALE adale@bermudasun.bm

Water truckers are urging the public to plan ahead when it comes to deliveries of

this precious resource. Russ Ford, vice president and spokesman for the Bermuda Water Truckers Association, said islanders also have to realize they have a responsibility to the

environment, and so should conserve as much as possible. This was even more important in the current recession, in which people are sometimes forced to choose between water deliveries or groceries. Mr Ford, president of water trucking company, Bermuda Water Services Ltd, said: “The weather is quite dry right now, which is good for business, but for the consumer it’s a challenge because people are having to purchase more water at a higher price. “People are making decisions based on prioritizing their needs, such as, ‘Should I buy groceries or water?’. That is what we hear quite often.

Responsibility “But most people right now recognize that water is a precious resource and are budgeting their usage accordingly. “We want to encourage people to plan ahead and to conserve water. “Above all we want to help them to realize that they have a responsibility to the environment as well. “Our message is conservation. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. “So we encourage people to check their tanks regularly and to establish a good relationship with a water service company.” Water truckers increased the price of a load of water See DELIVERIES, page 7


THE BERMUDA SUN

DELIVERIES Continued from page 6 — 1,000 gallons of water — from $80 to $90 from April 1. There are about 60 water trucks in operation on the island, capable of delivering 60,000 gallons of water. Mr Ford said the decision to raise the load price was not taken lightly. “Two years ago the price of water from Government increased by 47 per cent, so that was a significant reason why the load prices had to increase, together with the general cost of doing business,” he said.

Cost of living “Our industry has faced rising costs over the last year-and-a-half, such as fuel, trucking parts and tyres. “The cost of living has also gone up. We have to survive. “This is the first time we’ve raised our prices in two years.” At Bermuda Water Services Ltd, Mr Ford said many customers have standing orders during the dry summer months, but that the turnaround time is between 24 and 72 hours. The company, established 26 years ago, operates two 1,000 gallon trucks across the island. “We have a large, diverse customer base,” he said. “We pride ourselves on service and have certainly built up a very good reputation for delivering on time, every time.” ■

CONTACT Bermuda Water Services Ltd on 236-2410/2365748 or e-mail bdawater@ northrock.bm

WATER REPORT: A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

MAY 11, 2012 ■ 7

Reverse Osmosis needed BY DARREN DE SILVA Waternow

Gone are the days of hand pumps which transferred water from your tank to a small reservoir in the roof. This simple system served many a Bermudian family, using gravity and elbow grease to provide basic water pressure, and a cold shower — every few days or so. Clothes were washed by hand. And as some of our older generations still do, waste bath and kitchen water was saved for flushing and the vegetable garden. But here are the days of massaging showerheads, built-in Jacuzzi tubs, family-size washing machines, and man’s best friend — the dishwasher.

Modern age The Bermuda household of today uses more water than it ever has. While our characteristic white roofs continue to maintain their form and utility (albeit with undercover advances in materials and construction), and our tanks have grown in size, many a Bermuda household consumes more than it can catch and/or store, especially in times of drought. So today we make water. We have proven technology to ‘make’ water, or more accurately, to extract, process and treat water into a form we can safely drink. Modern Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems, though

■ PHOTO SUPPLIED

RECYCLED: A Reverse Osmosis unit at KC Daniels Ltd, capable of producing 65,000 gallons of water a day. becoming increasingly more efficient, still require significant maintenance, expertise and electrical costs to operate. In short, these units force water at high pressure through a membrane with microscopic pores, pores large enough to allow smaller water molecules through but to filter out larger molecules such as salt and minerals. Raw water (which may start off as fresh, brackish, or salt) is extracted from wells located around the island. This water is ‘RO’d’ and treated to Government specifications, including chlorination. Following this, the treated water is pumped to reservoirs for holding and

distribution. The primary large-scale sources for publicly-consumed water production in Bermuda include the Bermuda Government, John Barritt’s, Bermuda Waterworks Ltd, and KC Daniels Ltd. While the scale varies, the basic process is the same. When it comes to transportation, if you already have piped water, distribution is easy; however, it’s a wise idea to top up your tank before times of peak demand. A float valve can automate this and maintain a desired level — a wise and less worrisome choice for someone. See SUPPLIES, page 8

design t consultation t installation t service t maintenance point of entry, point of use water treatment systems solar & wind powered desalination systems t filtration UV disinfection t reverse osmosis t bottleless water coolers t fountains

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8 ■ MAY 11, 2012

WATER REPORT: A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

SUPPLIES Continued from page 7

■ PHOTO SUPPLIED

STURDY: A Waternow water truck. The water pump is driven hydraulically off the main diesel engine.

The plumbing shop at Bermuda Waterworks stocks these. Installation is straightforward and only requires basic plumbing skills, or a phone call to a competent plumber. Unlike many parts of the world, Bermuda does not have municipal water piped into every home. While the number of households with this option grows every year, the majority of Bermuda

Sales & Services of submersible well pumps for domestic and commercial applications Conveniently located at

PAGET SERVICE STATION 65 Middle Road, Paget Tel 236-1691

THE BERMUDA SUN

‘The operators get these trucks into the smallest of places, on the darkest of nights.’ households and many businesses do not have it. Roll out Plan B, as in back-up — the ubiquitous Bermuda water truck. Ranging in size and shape, every one of them is custom-built to navigate the narrow roads of Bermuda. There are approximately 34 companies, almost all small family businesses, and 45 trucks. The secret to getting one quick? Don’t run out in the first place! Check your tank and order in advance, especially in the summer months, and especially if you live in the west or east end. A wireless tank monitor may be in order for those with tanks that are difficult to check. Check out www. etank.bm. Where there is a will, there is a way, and the operators get these trucks into the smallest of places, on the darkest of nights. Weighing in at over four tons per 1,000 US gallons, that payload, coupled with Bermuda’s winding, uneven roads and bumpy off-road driveways, the job plays havoc with the tyres, chassis, suspension, brakes and transmissions. Upon reaching its destination, a truck will off-load its cargo through hoses as short as 10 feet, to as many as several hundred for some hard-to-reach jobs. ■

DARREN DE SILVA is the owner of Waternow. Services include: Water delivery; tank cleaning, sanitation and repairs; water testing; pool services; and roof cleaning, painting and repairs. Contact 504-5555 or see www.waternow.bm and order online.


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WATER REPORT: A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

MAY 11, 2012 ■ 9

Why US products make WaterSense BY SACHA BEARDEN Baptiste Ltd

‘We Bermudians all know how to save water. ...But these new waterefficient products will make our job easier.’

Many of the products we buy in Bermuda are manufactured in the United States, and the water conservation laws there are quite strict. So, in turn, we get some very innovative and effective water-efficient products. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has come up with a programme called WaterSense (www.epa.gov/watersense). Products that have been certified to be at least 20 per cent more efficient than required by law are allowed to bear the WaterSense label and use it in their marketing. This helps to educate consumers about waterefficient products and encourages innovation in manufacturing. Under current law, faucets must have a flow rate under 1.5 gallons per minute (gpm), showerheads must be under 2.5gpm and toilets must flush with 1.6 gallons of water or less. Years ago, toilets flushed with an average of 5.4 gallons per flush (gpf). In the Nineties they were regulated to flush on 3.5 gpf and more recently on only 1.6 gpf, so we have come a long way. Replacing old toilets in your house can save up to 11 gallons per toilet per day by EPA estimates. However, many toilets now flush on only 1.28 gpf — meeting the WaterSense

■ PHOTO BY AMANDA DALE

EFFICIENCY: A selection of the American Standard waterefficient bathroom products at Baptiste Ltd. requirements. American Standard achieved this efficiency by making the flush valve larger, which allows water to move from the tank to the bowl much faster. It has also introduced bigger, glazed trapways, which reduce friction and let waste pass through faster. The company’s Siphonic Action toilets also empty the bowl quicker by using an ‘S’-shaped waterway.

Another great product is the Dual Flush toilet. It has a dual push button on top. The number one flush uses a mere 1.0gpf and the number two flush uses 1.6 gpf. And of course we all know what one and two mean. American Standard’s showerheads are even more efficient — they contain a small turbine-like mechanism that spins the water through the showerhead so that it creates an invigo-

rating spray, using only 1.5gpm. So it feels like more water than it actually uses. And a key part of saving water is by not wasting water. Washer-less cartridges prevent potential waste through a dripping faucet, which can waste hundreds of gallons per week. In general, we Bermudians all know how to save water. We have been raised with an awareness of how much we use and how to conserve. But these new waterefficient products will make our job easier. ■

SACHA BEARDEN is the owner of Baptiste Ltd, Middle Road, Warwick. Baptiste Ltd stocks building supplies, home decor and household goods. Its bathroom section stocks American Standard sinks, bath tubs and toilets plus other fixtures. Call 236-2095 or go to www.baptiste.bm.

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10 ■ MAY 11, 2012

WATER REPORT: A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

THE BERMUDA SUN

High-quality drinking water SUPPLIED BY BERMUDA WATERWORKS LTD As summer approaches, the demand for water increases and its impact on our daily lives becomes important. Bermuda Waterworks Ltd is a leading provider of bottled water and piped drinking water. Every day we supply water to homes, businesses, hotels, cruise ships and the occasional ship or resident needing water for specialized equipment. In Bermuda, water is a valued resource. With the absence of natural rivers, the early settlers constructed tanks for water catchment and storage. It is a practice that is carried out to this day. Necessity was the mother of invention for our forefathers and they excelled in

■ PHOTO SUPPLIED

HYGIENE: At Bermuda Waterworks each bottle returned by the customer is inspected and cleaned before being refilled. their ingenuity. Early in our company’s history, brackish water was the order of the day. Several decades later we

are using advanced reverse osmosis and desalination techniques to extract and treat our source water. Approximately two-thirds

of our piped water comes from treated seawater. The remaining one third comes from desalting brackish groundwater extracted from the underground lenses. The abundance of seawater has made reverse osmosis a natural fit for the company’s operations. The piped water supply is chlorinated after rigorous treatment so that it meets local and international quality standards. In 2010 Bermuda Waterworks entered into an agreement with the Bermuda Government to expand its distribution to the western part of the island. This project is expected to last another two years. The second phase up to Somerset Bridge has been completed and clients are already benefiting from the new water service. The project will restart in the fourth quarter of this year.

Bottled water This phase will extend the pipeline into Somerset village. This joint partnership will help to alleviate the temporary crisis that can result from a long spell of dry weather. The cost of the company’s piped water is quite competitive. A truckload of water now costs $90 on average and holds 1,000 Imperial gallons (1,200 US gallons). Bermuda Waterworks’ base rate is $24.33 once the early payment discount is applied. This entitles the customer to 1,000 Imperial gallons of water. In these changing economic times, not having a piped water connection in an area that we serve is an unnecessary expense on the household budget. The company also bottles its water under the Pure Water brand. See HYDRATION, page 11


THE BERMUDA SUN

HYDRATION Continued from page 10 It is packaged in three and five gallon containers. Bottled water is a healthy, convenient food product that residents use because of its refreshing taste. It is a good way to stay hydrated and is a healthy alternative to other beverages in helping to combat the obesity epidemic. Annually our water is subject to a detailed chemical analysis by a US-based laboratory. Locally, our bottled water is tested daily in-house and weekly by an external approved laboratory. Our bottles can be reused several times. Bottles are rejected if there are any leaks or have been used to store other liquids, or are dirty.

Mission We are happy to donate rejected bottles to coin drives and fundraising drives by schools and organizations. Just give us a call and save a good bottle from going bad. For the last 80 years, Bermuda Waterworks has manufactured water to meet the island’s growing needs. Our daily mission is to provide the island with a high-quality potable piped drinking water supply and internationally-approved bottled water products. We are here to meet all of your water needs. ■

BERMUDA WATERWORKS LTD, 32 Parsons Lane, Devonshire. Contact 2997873. E-mail water@bwl.bm

WATER REPORT: A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

MAY 11, 2012 ■ 11

How to prime your pump BY SACHA BEARDEN Baptiste Ltd

No matter how much you try to save water there’s a chance you will be in the middle of a shower one day when the water just sputters and stops. You have run out of water. Ugh. The first thing to do BEARDEN is turn off the pump. Make yourself familiar with its location now, so you don’t have to hunt around when the water stops. You will likely have to unplug it. Leaving it running can cause it to overheat and damage the impellers.

Water heater Another good idea is to unplug the water heater — you don’t want it heating when it is not full. If you are lucky, your tank has two sides and only one side is empty. The valve for switching tanks is something you need to be familiar with too — so find it now. It may be in the pump room, it may be in the tank. Once you switch sides of the tank, you can try turning on the pump. With any luck it will turn on and start pumping water. However, if it has ‘lost its prime’ you will need to prime it.

‘The first thing to do is turn off the pump. Make yourself familiar with its location now, so you don’t have to hunt around when the water stops.’ Pumps do not ‘pull’ water, they ‘push it’, and the vacuum created by the ejected water pulls more water up the pipe. So there needs to be something in the line for it to push. If you are unlucky, both sides of your tank are empty, or you only have a single tank. Now you need to call a water trucker and have it delivered. Most water truckers will prime the pump if you ask them, but if not, you can try it yourself. You will need a bucket and possibly a funnel. On top of your pump there should be a plug or pressure gauge. Remove that and pour water in until it flows over. How much water will depend on how far away your tank is. Now you are asking, ‘Where do I get water if the pump isn’t working?’. You may be able to get some from the pressure tank. There is a hose bibb (spigot) very close to it — try that. Otherwise use some rope tied to your bucket and dip

it from the tank. Once there is water in the line and you have replaced the cap or gauge, plug in the pump. There is lever on the side of the pressure switch (that little box attached to the pump), so just lift the lever. The pump will start.

Pressure Give it a few seconds before releasing the lever. The pump should now run on its own and you will hear your pressure tank filling up and see the pressure on the gauge steadily climbing. If you are intimidated by all those switches, valves and plugs, I recommend the guys from After Hours Plumbing (504-2105). They are always reliable and have rescued me many times. ■

SACHA BEARDEN is the owner of Baptiste Ltd, Warwick, which stocks building supplies, home decor and household goods. The store is open from 8am-6pm, Monday to Saturday. Call 236-2095 or go to www.baptiste.bm.

In one hour our non-renewable energy consumption takes a tremendous toll on the planet. And yet…in that one hour more energy is available from sunlight than the world’s population needs all year.

solar watermakers ClearWater Systems 10 Harvey Road, Paget service@clearwatersystems.bm www.clearwatersystems.bm


12 ■ MAY 11, 2012

WATER REPORT: A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

THE BERMUDA SUN

From tank cleaning to waterproofing SUPPLIED BY RENEW LTD

■ PHOTOS SUPPLIED

PROFESSIONAL: A Renew technician waterproofs the concrete in a tank using XYPEX products.

Renew is our name and water is our game. Founded in May 2006 by Cory Powell, the Renew journey started as a oneman band with just a power washer and a car. We now have a fleet of vehicles, an all-Bermudian ‘Renew Crew’ of seven, a warehouse, workshop, offices, mobile trailer washing units, high-lift equipment and a distributorship for world-renowned waterproofing product XYPEX. Mr Powell, owner of Renew Ltd, said: “Bermuda is going through a rough patch at the moment but those who have worked to build relationships with their clients and put the customer first during the high times, can make it through the hard times. “We strive to provide the very best service for our

customers and that’s what Renew is built from. “We’ve worked hard to build a strong reputation within the industry and to recruit and support a strong team of Bermudians. “A company is nothing without its employees and when they can enjoy their job, know they are respected and feel a sense of pride in what they do, it’s good for them and it’s good for business.”

Water and tank maintenance We’re heading into what seems like an early drought season this year and there are a few things we should all start to do. ■ Check your water supply often ■ Order your water well in advance See SERVICE, page 13


THE BERMUDA SUN

SERVICE Continued from page 12 ■ Check to see if roof gutters are clear and clean ■ Always conserve water where and when you can. If you do find you’re low and it’s been more than five or six years since your last roof or tank cleaning, maybe now is the time to get it ‘Renew’d’. Call us. We will examine your project, provide a written quote or estimate, clean, disinfect, inspect, repair and waterproof your tank or roof, leaving you with a peace of mind that the job has been handled by professionals.

Waterproofing Renew Ltd is also the certified distributor, technical service provider and installation specialist for XYPEX Concrete Waterproofing products. With Bermuda’s unique build design of concrete and Bermuda stone, combined with our proximity to the ocean and driving wind and rain, we are susceptive to water and salt intrusion throughout our homes. This causes concrete and plaster deterioration. That’s where XYPEX

WATER REPORT: A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

MAY 11, 2012 ■ 13

comes in. XYPEX will close the pores of new and old concrete and plaster finishes, thus holding back the flow of moisture through the surface. XYPEX is potable water-approved and is safe for water holding structures such as our Bermuda tanks and cisterns.

Pressure washing and restoration Our restoration and pressure washing division carries a wide array of water saving and recovery equipment, as well hot and cold water washing units. From cleaning a simple set of slippery steps to a full home or building wash down, keeping Bermuda beautiful is our game and we take pride in every job we do. We recently introduced Farrow abrasive blasting to our restoration division. From boat bottoms, concrete and brick, to steel, wood and aluminum, the Farrow system can help ‘renew’ even the most difficult of coating removal challenges. ■

RENEW LTD, call 238-3639 or e-mail renew@northrock. bm. Website www.renewbermuda.com

PRESSURE WASH: Farrow blasting the bottom of a boat.

Minister urges public care in conservation BY AMANDA DALE adale@bermudasun.bm

Bermuda is facing drought conditions, with less than half the average rainfall recorded in the first five months of the year. Michael Weeks, Minister of Public Works, urged the

public to conserve more water as the dry spell continues. Mr Weeks told a press conference on April 30: “As of today, the average yearto-date rainfall would usually be around 18.41 inches. “However, Bermuda has only recorded a mere 8.61

inches — nearly a 10 inch deficit just four months into the year. “In fact we are well behind on average annual rainfall for the past few years. “In 2010 we were 10.6 inches below average, while last year we were 16.3 inches

below average.” More than a third of Bermuda’s water, 41 per cent, comes from rain. The rest of sourced from treated sea and groundwater. The Tynes Bay seawater RO plant produces See DROUGHT, page 14


14 ■ MAY 11, 2012

WATER REPORT: A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

THE BERMUDA SUN

■ IMAGE COURTESY OF THE GOVERNMENT OF BERMUDA

SOURCES: This diagram illustrates where Bermuda’s water supply in Bermuda comes from and how it is processed for use.

DROUGHT Continued from page 13 600,000 gallons a day, the St George’s RO plant produces 130,000 gallons a day, and the Tudor Hill plant (Port Royal) produces 40 gallons per minute — a maximum 50,000 gallons a day.

Supplies Mr Weeks said: “We can run all of our Reverse Osmosis plants at full steam, but (we) still rely very much on rainfall for our daily water needs. “Today I wanted to take a few minutes to remind the public that our fresh water resources are very

precious — and that we should only use what we absolutely need. “Therefore, to ensure you have adequate supplies to carry you through this current drought, please check your tank levels often, particularly in periods when rain is not plentiful. “If your tank level is low, conserve water and if you need to buy water please WEEKS do not order more than you need — it will rain again one day. “Be sure to order water before you run out as it may take several days for a trucker to get to you. “Please don’t wait until

the last minute as this only places additional strain on our infrastructure. “It is best you order the water five to seven days in advance as the water truckers are working very hard to ensure all of their clients’ needs are met. “Use your water supply wisely and remember that every drop saved helps maintain Bermuda’s water table. “Access to clean, potable water is becoming an increasing problem worldwide. “We in Bermuda are perhaps too complacent

at times and believe that we will always have water when we need it as we have always had it in the past. “I would like to thank the Water section within the Ministry of Public Works who continue to work tirelessly to ensure our RO plants are running at capacity — therefore, I am asking the public to do their part to conserve.” Mr Weeks also announced that the St George’s Reverse Osmosis plant is to be moved to the Government quarry at Bailey’s Bay. The RO plant will become operational at the end of the year and will produce 100,000 gallons per day. ■


WATER REPORT: A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

THE BERMUDA SUN

MAY 11, 2012 â– 15

How to keep your water safe BY AMANDA DALE adale@bermudasun.bm

Salmonella and E. coli have been found in the tank water of many Bermuda homes. As water is clear and odorless, and contains no visible signs of bacteria, you may be unaware it is present. Therefore it is necessary to take preventative measures. Tank and roof catchment maintenance are essential to keep your water safe, clean and fresh. Filtration and disinfection of drinking water are also recommended.

Checks The Department of Health issues the following advice to ensure the safety of your water supply:

Roof catchment ■Trim overhanging trees and cover open rainwater leaders with wire screens (‘pineapples’), to prevent leaves and other debris from going in your tank. ■Keep your roof and gutters clean and free of fungal growth. ■Roofs should be powerwashed or wire-brushed when dirty, no later than every two years. They should be washed with bleach before being repainted (50 per cent bleach, 50 per cent water). Repair hairline cracks. ■Tightly seal all rainwater leaders when cleaning and painting the water

â– FILE PHOTO BY KAGEAKI SMITH

COLLECTION: Bermuda has a unique way of harvesting rainwater, with grooved bleached limestone roofs to direct water down to storage tanks built underneath each building. catchment. Do not remove until after the first rain shower. â– Block gutters and downpipes whenever roof cleaning is carried out to prevent dirty water from such operations seeping into the tank. This can also be done before approaching hurricanes, to try to limit debris entering the tank.

Water tank â– All overflow pipes should be above ground and screened with fine mesh wire. Ensure that the tank top is tight-fitting and kept free. of sources of contamination â– Clean your water tank as often as necessary to prevent sediment accumulation. Studies show that most contamination settles out of

the water into the sludge. â– The suction valve should be located at least 18 inches above the tank bottom and as far as possible away from the sump where sludge collects. â– Avoid refilling tanks that are low in water and high in sediment. The water may become unsafe to drink because conSee HYGIENE, page 16

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$MFBS8BUFS 4ZTUFNT )BSWFZ 3PBE 1BHFU TFSWJDF!DMFBSXBUFSTZTUFNT CN XXX DMFBSXBUFSTZTUFNT CN


16 ■ MAY 11, 2012

WATER REPORT: A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

HYGIENE

Well water ■A

Continued from page 15 taminants contained in the sludge can be reintroduced into the water. ■ Disinfect your tank supply every three to four months using regular household bleach (4 ounces per 1,000 gallons) to kill germs. Chlorination should only be performed if the water is clear and the tank relatively free of sludge. Organic matter contained in the sludge inhibits disinfection and may result in the formation of potentially harmful by-products. ■ Aeration (adding oxygen) should be performed if there is very little turnover or if the water tastes flat. Aerate bad smelling water by running your garden hose to the top of your roof and allowing the water to drain back into the tank. Or dunk a bucket repeatedly into the tank. Alternatively, set your garden hose nozzle on fine spray and direct it onto the surface of the water in your tank. Allow at least a few hours for ample turnover. If the tank is clean, aeration followed by chlorination should improve water quality. ■ If the water in your tank is cloudy and tastes objectionable, it should be discarded. ■ Prevent mosquitoes or fly larvae from entering the tank by screening vents or overflows with mesh wire. Check gutters for standing water. ■ If your tap water is rustcoloured, this may mean deterioration of the galvanized water supply components (pipes or pressure tank). Replace as needed. ■ Your water tank should be cleaned at least every six years. Disinfect the water using two to four ounces of bleach for every 1,000 gallons in the tank. ¼ cup of household bleach to every 1,000 gallons. Use the formula: Tank length x width x depth x 6.25 = tank capacity in gallons. Consider using a qualified contractor to clean it.

THE BERMUDA SUN

■ PHOTO COURTESY OF HARRISON ISAAC

DIRT: Water tanks should be checked and cleaned regularly. This picture shows the damage caused by a clogged grease trap which leaked into the tank, also damaging the wall. ■ When buying water from a trucker only buy enough to fill it to half so that you leave space for rainwater collection.

Bacteria Susan Hill Davidson, environmental health officer and acting Water Programme manager, said: “We do find indicators of bacteriological contamination in many domestic water samples where there is no treatment carried out or insufficient treatment. “If tanks are clean, regular chlorination may be used to prevent/treat this bacterial contamination, which can occur from birds, small animals (such as lizards and insects), leaves, dirt and dust accumulations on our roofs. “Alternatively water may be boiled for drinking and food preparation purposes. “In times of little rain, there is a temptation for some to consider using their well water to top up their tanks. “This practice is illegal and also involves many potential health risks, that people may now be aware of including: Possible high salt levels; pesticides; chemicals; detergents; pharmaceuticals and sewage contaminants, all of which seep into our groundwater from what

people put on gardens, golf courses, into cesspits and so on. “Many contaminants settle out onto the base of the tank and form sediment where contamination is concentrated. “Hence, one reason tanks should be regularly cleaned out.”

Disinfection Although less than one per cent of household water is used for drinking, disinfecting only the water used for drinking is less costly than treating all water in the house. Methods include boiling, ultraviolet light and distillers. Boiling water is recommended for tank water used for babies, young children, the elderly and immunocompromised individuals. Ultraviolet light systems can treat water at a single tap. They are normally combined with carbon and sediment filters to remove particulates and improve the taste of water. Distillers on counter tops kill pathogenic microorganisms but must be maintained to prevent re-growth in the chamber. Government says: “Without some form of disinfection, tank water will

well can provide a supplementary water supply and is good to use for flushing. ■ Determine the quality and depth of water in your area. Talk to neighbours who have wells or to a licensed well driller. ■ Obtain a Water Right Application Form from the Department of Environmental Protection, for $65. ■ Get quotes from licensed well drillers for all costs including the plumbing. ■ It is unlawful to pipe water from wells to a home faucet where it can be used for drinking, cooking or to top up your water tank. ■ Well water can be contaminated from many sources including your cesspit. ■

typically contain bacteria that are found in the natural environment and pose no health concern. “However, bacteria found in the faeces of warm blooded animals (eg. E. coli) are frequently present to some degree which is considered unsatisfactory. “As some disease organisms from animals can be transmitted to humans through faecal contamination of water, it is important that drinking water contains no bacteria associated with intestinal flora. “Recent testing of tank waters have found Salmonella, a bacteria that causes diarrheal illness. “It is important to know that the smell, taste and appearance of water cannot provide an accurate indication of bacteriological quality or safety. “The best approach to ensure complete disinfection of your drinking water is to collect water from the cleanest possible source, followed by filtration and disinfection.” ■

FOR MORE INFORMATION contact the Department of Health on 278-4976/77. The Department of Environmental Protection can be contacted on 2364201/239-2318.



Follow these tips to protect your tank supply: +V UV[ \ZL ^LSS ^H[LY [V YLÄSS `V\Y [HUR +V UV[ JVUULJ[ ^LSS ^H[LY [V `V\Y KYPURPUN ^H[LY Z`Z[LT *SLHU [OL ZLKPTLU[ V\[ VM `V\Y [HUR H[ SLHZ[ L]LY` Ä]L `LHYZ 2LLW KLIYPZ V\[ VM `V\Y [HUR I` [YPTTPUN IHJR V]LYOHUNPUN [YLLZ JSLHUPUN N\[[LYZ HUK PUZ[HSSPUN N\[[LY ZJYLLUZ WPULHWWSLZ ‹ 7LYPVKPJHSS` JSLHU `V\Y YVVM JH[JOTLU[ ^P[O H Z[YVUN ISLHJO ZVS\[PVU [V YLTV]L M\UNHS NYV^[O ;OPZ JHU HSZV SLUN[OLU [OL [PTL IL[^LLU YLWHPU[PUN ‹ )VPS HSS [HUR ^H[LY \ZLK MVY WYLWHYPUN PUMHU[ MVYT\SH ‹ *VUZPKLY PUZ[HSSPUN HU HWWYV]LK KPZPUMLJ[PVU Z`Z[LT [V [YLH[ [HUR ^H[LY \ZLK MVY KYPURPUN *VU[HJ[ ,U]PYVUTLU[HS /LHS[O MVY M\Y[OLY PUMVYTH[PVU HUK HK]PJL TEL. GOVERNMENT OF BERMUDA Ministry of Health Department of Health

is important for a healthy home

‹ ‹ ‹ ‹



You’re concerned for your health. We’re concerned for your water’s health.

design t consultation t installation t service t maintenance point of entry & point of use water treatment systems UV disinfection t reverse osmosis t filtration t bottleless water coolers t fountains solar & wind powered desalination systems t waste water treatment systems

10 Harvey Road, Paget 236.3388


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