Orange Water and Sewer Authority

THE BLUE THUMB

Community Outreach Meeting
planned for March 31st

The OWASA Board of Directors will hold a community meeting on Thursday night, March 31st to discuss our plans for the future and to receive comments and questions from customers.

The meeting will begin with an OWASA presentation on questions such as:

•  Will our community have enough water when the next major drought occurs?

•  How much water per day can our existing lakes provide in a drought?

•  How much will water use rise in coming decades?

•  What is OWASA doing to prepare for future growth in water demand?

•  How important is the future reuse of highly treated wastewater for non-drinking purposes?

•  How important is water conservation for our community's future?

•  Can we have an adequate water supply for the long term with our locally-protected water sources?

While our brief presentation will focus primarily on future water supply and demand, the floor will be open for questions and comments about any of OWASA's plans, services, policies, etc.

We hope to see you on March 31st-- please put this date on your calendar!

400 Jones Ferry Road , Carrboro	(919) 968-4421	www.owasa.org	webmaster@owasa.org
Hablamos Español (537-4221)		Printed on recycled paper

Questions and answers about:

WATER PRESSURE
AND YOUR PLUMBING SYSTEM

(part of an occasional series with tips for understanding and better maintenance of your plumbing system)

Above: A pressure reducing valve (PRV) -- an important part of the plumbing
system for many (but not all) customers.

Each of us uses plumbing systems at home and at work without necessarily knowing in detail how our water pipes, drains and fixtures work.

Below is some basic information about water pressure and devices called “pressure reducing valves.”

We hope this information will help you save time, money and inconvenience through a better understanding of your plumbing system.

What determines the water pressure level in a public water system?

The pressure in our water mains results from the weight of water in elevated water storage tanks in various areas of the community.

The greater the height or elevation of water in our tank compared to the elevation of a house or business, the greater the pressure.

Because of variations in the topography or lay of the land in our community, water pressures vary. Pressure in low-lying areas may exceed 150 pounds per square inch (psi); pressures in our water mains on hills or ridges may be 35 to 40 psi in some neighborhoods.

What is a Pressure Reducing Device (PRV)?

A PRV is a device that reduces and stabilizes the water pressure in a home, business or other building to an adjustable level between 35 and 60 psi. This pressure reduction is important because the pressure in some of OWASA's public water mains can be much higher. Plumbing pipes, hoses and fixtures tend to last longer and have fewer leaks if they are used at lower pressures. Lower pressure also helps conserve water!

Is everyone required to have a PRV?

No. Under the plumbing code, a PRV is required for if the pressure in a building would otherwise be above 80 psi. But a PRV may be a good idea if you need to be able to adjust or control your water pressure.

Do PRVs fail and what indicates a PRV is failing?

Like other devices, PRVs can fail due to age and other factors.

If you notice fluctuations in water pressure, a failing PRV may be the cause. As a first step, we invite you to call us at 968-4421 to schedule a free water pressure check. If repair or replacement of your PRV is needed, we recommend having a licensed plumber advise you about the type of PRV needed and install it.

Questions or comments? Please contact us at 968-4421 or webmaster@owasa.org .

WATER DISINFECTION WILL CHANGE
IN MARCH

In March, we will disinfect our drinking water with chlorine instead of chloramines.

Chloramines are a compound of chlorine and ammonia that we began using in January, 2002 to enhance our water quality. In March of each year, we use chlorine instead as required under State standards for water systems that normally use chloramines. You may notice some or more odor in our water in March due to our temporary use of chlorine. If you have fish or amphibians, please check with a pet supply store about whether you will need to change the type of additive you use in your aquarium to neutralize chlorine in March.

400 Jones Ferry Road, Carrboro (919) 968-4421
www.owasa.org webmaster@owasa.org fax: 968-4464