Addressing Pressure Fluctuations

Pressure fluctuations are common in public water systems, and the Roxborough Water and Sanitation District (District) system is no exception. These fluctuations are largely unpredictable and surprisingly troublesome. Too much water pressure can cause malfunctions in appliances, toilets, sprinkler systems, and hot water heaters – and potentially permanent damage to the home’s water system.

To mitigate harmful changes in water pressure, residences in the District are required to have a pressure-reducing valve or PRV. The PRV is typically installed on a home’s incoming water line, before the water meter. The PRV helps stabilize the incoming water pressure coming into the home to a fixed level. Because this valve protects plumbing fixtures and appliances from water fluctuations, homeowners should verify the installation and proper function of the PRV periodically and consult a licensed plumber if they have questions.

Catching Leaks

Check sprinklers when they’re first turned on and then monthly for leaks and overspray. Adjust misdirected sprinkler heads and replace broken sprinklers immediately.

Review your water bill monthly to see if use has gone up more than anticipated. If it has, you may well have a leak. You can also check your water meter (more on that here: LINK TO NEW “YOUR WATER METER” PAGE). Check your pipes, toilets and other fixtures inside, and consider hiring an irrigation evaluation expert to check your outdoor watering.

Shutting Off Your Water

If you need to shut off your water or want to check for a leak in your system, you will find that most water shut-off valves are located where the main water line enters the home. Most are located in the basement and are clearly marked. Once you know where the valve is, be sure that everyone, of a responsible age, in the home is aware of its location and how to shut off the water. To protect the service line, sometimes there is a water shut-off valve located on the homeowner’s side of the water meter, outside of the District’s meter box. While this is usually not necessary, please know that a water meter located inside the home does not protect the line from the meter to the house. If you plan to have a shut-off valve installed, please notify the District’s Customer Service staff so they can schedule an inspection to make certain it is installed according to District standards. Please remember that only authorized District personnel may turn the District’s water meter off and/or on. If you have any questions about customer shut-off valves, please do not hesitate to contact the District at 303-979-7286.