Show All Answers

1. What is a PRV and when does the District recommend their installation?

A pressure reducing valve (PRV) reduces the water pressure to the customer. The Uniform Plumbing Code and the District recommend installing PRVs when the water pressure in the District's mains exceed 80 pounds per square inch (psi). The District will inform the applicant of this condition. PRVs are available at most hardware and plumbing stores, and are installed by the applicant on the applicant's side of the water meter.

2. What is a RPBPD and when are they required?

A reduced pressure backflow prevention device (RPBPD) prevents water from flowing in reverse and potentially contaminating the water in the District's mains. RPBPDs are required on all services in industrial and commercial areas, on residential services with houses greater than 3 stories or with residential fire sprinklers, and at all sites that also have a well or other potential water quality hazard. RPBPDs are installed and maintained by the District. RPBPDs are installed approximately 18-inches above ground and are typically located directly behind the meter preferably in landscaped areas.

3. Can I upgrade or downgrade my existing meter, and whom should I call?

Yes, the Engineering Service Coordinator can arrange to increase or decrease the size of your existing meter. In most cases, this is a relatively simple process. Again, the sooner this information is known, there will be less impact on completion of final service designs.

4. How do raw water customers obtain treated water service?

Raw water (untreated canal water) customers follow the same process to obtain treated water as other new applicants. As with customers with on-site wells, a RPBPD is required on the treated water service for all applicants using canal water. Contact the Engineering Service Coordinator for more information.