In March, Water District 19 finished installing a set of pressure-reducing valves in its distribution system, with the aim of lowering pressure that was in some areas above Department of Health (DOH) guidelines. High pressure increases the chance of distribution leakage, and it also puts appliances, like hot water heaters, at risk. After continuing complaints from residents, the district decided that although the fix proposed by its engineers was elaborate, it should move ahead.

The unforeseen consequence of the upgrade has turned out to be that residents in several areas have seen their pressure much reduced from what they were used to before.

Even though the new service pressure is within what DOH rules consider the normal range, some of these residents are, entirely understandably, upset to find it takes longer to fill washing appliances, and that a shower head may not generate the flow it once did, especially if water is being used elsewhere on the property.

The district is working with its engineer to adjust the new system in hopes of evening out the pressure differences. More critically, it wants to ensure that during fire flow events or system flushing, the pressure in affected homes does not sink below clear DOH standards. This adjustment period is turning out to be longer and more difficult than we anticipated.

The frustration felt by our customers is shared; as we keep trying to work through this trying period, we can only ask for continuing patience.

Meanwhile, any affected residents with specific issues should freely contact the district office, where General Manager Jeff Lakin will do what is within his power to help and advise.

— Richard Bard,
Water District 19 Board President