Water

Importance of Backflow Prevention and Its Mechanisms

Backflow is a serious issue where water flows back into the drinking water system through a cross connection, instead of moving in its intended direction. Two main ways backflow can occur are through backsiphonage and backpressure:

• Backsiphonage: This occurs when the pressure in the drinking water system drops below normal. Activities such as water line flushing, fire fighting, or water main breaks can trigger this type of backflow.
• Backpressure: This type of backflow happens when the pressure in a customer’s piping system is higher than that of the drinking water system. Backpressure is common in commercial applications that involve pumps, high-rise buildings, or boilers.

Backflow can lead to water contamination with pollutants, which can affect public health. Backflow from a private plumbing system can also flow into a public water supply or a building’s plumbing system, contaminating the water for other users. Installing a backflow prevention device is crucial to safeguard plumbing systems and public water supplies from contamination.

Understanding Cross-Connections and their Impact on Public Water Systems

A cross-connection can occur when a public water system or a consumer’s drinking water system is connected to a non-potable water source or system. This can result in contamination and jeopardize the safety and health of the public. Here are some common examples of cross-connections:

• Hot tubs
• Auxiliary water systems (wells)
• Hoses submerged in polluted or contaminated water
• Secondary irrigation water sources (such as wells or ponds) pumped into an irrigation system directly connected to the drinking water supply system
• Heating boilers with treatment chemicals added to prevent internal corrosion being connected directly to the water supply for make-up water
• Lawn sprinkler systems directly connected to the water supply system
• Fountains or swimming pools directly connected to the water system for filling

Backflow, the reversal of flow caused by a change in pressure within the water supply piping, can cause contaminated water to flow back into the drinking water supply system. Although public water systems are typically pressurized to maintain a continuous flow of water to your tap, unanticipated events, such as firefighting or water main breaks, can cause pressure changes that result in backflow.

To prevent cross-connection contamination caused by backflow conditions, backflow prevention devices are installed

Backflow Prevention Assembly Testing Requirements in Oregon

In Oregon, it is mandatory that all backflow prevention assembly testing be conducted by a Backflow Assembly Tester who is certified by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA).

Certified Backflow Testers

Please submit all final testing information to publicworks@ci.independence.or.us

Independence Water Department’s Backflow Prevention & Cross Connection Control Program: A Guide to Compliance

To ensure the safety and quality of the water supply, the Independence Water Department requires all customers to comply with the following guidelines:

When to Test

• After initial installation
• After any repair, replacement, or relocation
• Each year by a certified backflow assembly tester

Reminder Letter

• Customers with backflow assemblies that require testing will receive a yearly reminder letter from the Public Works Department.

Consequences of Noncompliance

Failure to conduct the required yearly backflow prevention assembly test will result in denial or discontinuation of water service.

Steps for Compliance

• Contact a State of Oregon approved Certified Backflow Assembly Tester.
• Schedule a test.
• Provide your account number to the tester.
  • Your account number is listed on the reminder to test letter you received from the Independence Water Department and your City of Independence Utility Bill.
  • You can request your account number at 503-837-1181 or by e-mail.
  • Your account number provides testers with information about the assembly(s) at your location, such as make, model, and serial number. It does not identify you or provide your contact information.
• Once the test is complete, the certified tester will submit your results. The test can also send you a copy of the report.

Confirming Receipt of Test Report

To confirm that Independence Water has received your backflow test report, you can:

• Call 503-837-1181
• Email Independence Water
• Visit 555 S Main St. Independence OR 97351

What to Expect During Water Flushing Procedures

Before flushing, the following will take place:

• Crews will gather their equipment and vehicles near a fire hydrant in the street. Cones and flaggers will be present, if necessary, to guide the public safely around the flushing area.
• Notification signs will be posted on the streets in the flushing area.
• Vehicles obstructing valves will receive no parking postcards.
• No parking signs will be posted, if required.

During the flushing procedure:

• Pedestrians may witness a significant amount of water being released from water mains through a fire hydrant, which will eventually drain into the City’s Stormwater System. 
• Water service will not be disrupted, and you can continue to use water while flushing is in progress.
• Flushing may result in temporary water pressure fluctuations and sediment disturbance in the pipeline, potentially causing discolored water at your taps. While the discoloration is not hazardous to your health, we recommend that you:
  • Wait until flushing is finished before using your washing machine or dishwasher.
  • Flush all your taps for up to 10 minutes to clear the pipes after flushing procedures are finished.
  • Clean sediment from faucet aerators, the small screens attached to the base of faucet spouts.

Please drive carefully around flushing crews and treat them like any other road construction crew.

Water main flushing is scheduled throughout the year, from Monday to Friday, between 8 am and 5 pm. Occasionally, flushing activities may occur outside of these hours as required. The duration of the flushing process, which depends on the main’s age, type, and size, as well as the amount of sediment buildup, can range from 20 minutes to an hour.

Maintaining Clean and Safe Water Supply through Flushing of Independence’s Water Mains

To ensure that the water supply is free from impurities, flushing of water mains is essential. Over time, sediment from mineral deposits and organic matter can accumulate in water mains, leading to a reduction in water flow, discoloration, and taste issues. Independence Water has implemented types of flushing techniques to address these issues:

• Conventional: Water is released from the water main through fire hydrants to remove any accumulated buildup.
• Unidirectional: A high-velocity hose is attached to a fire hydrant, and valves are opened to flush out an isolated section of the water main pipe.
• Blow-off: Water is released from a specific point in the water main to remove any accumulated buildup.

After flushing, the water is cleared of chlorine before being drained into the City’s stormwater system.

The homeowner is responsible for maintaining the water service line that runs from the water meter to their residence. Meanwhile, the City of Independence Water Department takes care of water mains and meters.

Responsibility for Leaks: Who Takes Charge?

When it comes to fixing leaks, there are two parties involved: the property owner/homeowner and the Independence Water Department. It all depends on where the leak is located:

• If the leak is in the water supply line (lateral), which is situated between the water meter and the residence, then the property owner/homeowner is responsible for fixing it.
• On the other hand, if the leak is in the water meter leading from the water main located in the street to the meter, then the Independence Water Department takes charge of the repairs.

Is it possible for the Independence Water Department to repair a leak on the homeowner’s side of the meter?

• Unfortunately, the Independence Water Department is only authorized by the state to work on the public water system. The homeowner’s side of the meter, which is considered private, can only be serviced by licensed plumbers.

Discover How to Save Money and Water by Locating and Repairing Leaks

A leak can cause significant harm to both your wallet and the environment, but there is a way to stop it. Using your water meter is an effective method to identify leaks and take the appropriate steps. Follow these instructions:

• Verify that all taps and outlets in your home and yard are turned off.
• Open your water meter box and take note of the meter.
• Observe the readout on the water meter, which alternates between “Read” (total gallons consumed) and “Rate” (water flow through the meter at the moment).
  • If everything is turned off, a “Rate” reading of “0,000” indicates there are no leaks, but a “Read” number will always be present.
  • If there is a number other than numerous zeroes, a leak is present.

Property owners and homeowners who require assistance locating a leak may contact the Independence Water Department by phone or email at 503 837-1181, publicworks@ci.independence.or.us to request a leak check. Trained staff will assess the situation and determine whether a professional plumber is necessary to repair any leaks. Homeowners are advised against attempting to fix leaks on their own.

How to Identify the Location of a Leak in Your House

If you discover a leak, the first step is to determine whether it’s inside or outside of your home. Follow these steps to identify the location:

1. Find your shut-off valve, which may be located in the following places:
   • In the garage where the water line enters the wall or ceiling, near the water heater or laundry hookup.
   • In the crawl space, where the water enters the home.
   • Outside near the foundation, often protected by a concrete ring or clay pipe.
2. Turn the shut-off valve to the “off” position to stop the flow of water into your home.
3. Check the meter outside of your house.
4. If the flow readout still shows a number besides “0,000,” the leak is likely in the service line outside.
5. If shutting off the flow to the house results in a “0,000” reading, then the leak is inside the house. Start by checking the toilet, as this is the most common source of leaks.

If you’re unable to locate the leak, it’s best to call a plumber for assistance.

Limitations of Water Department: Private Property Locates Unavailable

Please note that the Independence Water Department is unable to locate any underground utilities on private property. To assist customers with identifying their waterline, private utility locators can be contacted to provide marking and locating services.

Requesting Water Service Shut-Off for Plumbing Repairs

In case of significant water leaks or plumbing repairs, shutting off the water at your property may be required. During business hours, please contact the Independence Water Department at 503-837-1181 and ask for a water service shut-off at the meter.

Keep in mind that customers are not authorized to tamper with the water meter. If the meter or shut-off is damaged, customers will be held responsible and charged for the repairs.