Power and Water Backup Provisions in Residential Projects

Power and water backup facilities are important considerations when evaluating a residential project. Here are some key points to consider:

Capacity

Check the capacity of the power backup generators and water storage tanks based on the number of units and residents in the project. A higher capacity ensures that the project remains self-sufficient during utility outages or shortages.

Coverage

See which areas of the project are covered by the power and water backup systems. It is important to include individual units as well as common areas such as lifts, pumps, security systems, and lighting. Limited coverage may result in reduced convenience and safety during emergencies.

Type

Consider the type of backup systems being used. Diesel generator sets are common, but their noise levels should be evaluated as placement near units can be disturbing. Gas or biogas generators may be more environmentally friendly with lower emissions and noise. For water, underground concrete or metal tanks with proper valve mechanisms are preferred.

Provider

Choose a reputed brand for the installation and maintenance of the backup equipment. The service provider should be able to respond promptly in case of faults or issues to minimize downtime.

Running Cost

Compare the running costs of maintaining the backups to determine affordability and usage viability in the long run. Higher capacity or superior quality equipment may result in greater monthly energy bills for residents. It is also important to have dedicated meters for backup power to charge users based on actual consumption.

Alternative Sources

Consider if the project has installed renewable energy sources such as solar PV cells or windmills for power backup. These options are environmentally friendly and cost-effective. Rainwater harvesting to recharge groundwater levels and supplement water storage is also a desirable practice.

Monitoring

Check if the power and water backup systems have dedicated monitoring through control panels on site and remote monitoring off-site. Continuous monitoring enables timely detection of issues and helps in the prevention of total supply outages. Automated alerts in case of faults are preferable.

Testing

Evaluate if and how often equipment like generators and pumps are tested for functionality in simulated conditions. Regular testing and drills ensure that backup systems operate as intended during actual outages, reducing downtime. Ideally, testing should be done monthly or quarterly based on equipment type.

Maintenance

Review the annual or preventive maintenance provisions in place to service the backup equipment according to manufacturer specifications. Lack of regular maintenance can reduce equipment efficiency and lifespan, compromising its availability in times of need.

Power and water backup facilities are essential utilities that determine the standard of living and continuity of services in a residential project during interruptions. Evaluating the provisions carefully helps assess the project's self-sufficiency and preparedness to handle basic needs when external supply sources are constrained. This has a significant impact on homeowner convenience, safety, and quality of life.