Water pressure, it’s an up and down situation. The City of Galt’s water system is a loop system. This means that there is only one water zone. Just because you live next to a well it does not mean your water always comes from that well. If a well closest to your home is not running water can come from a well down the street or across town. Average water pressure around the city is 50 PSI. There can be fluctuations throughout the day that can be caused by situations such as water plant treatment process changes, flushing, high water usage, fires, etc.

There are distinct times where there is a much greater demand for water. The demand periods for water are generally the same each day. The peak demand times for water usage are usually 5:00 to 9:00 for both AM and PM. The demand for water at these times increases greatly. Water treatment processes that can affect pressure fluctuations around the City is during filter backwash operation. The well shuts down and water is pulled from the distribution system and used to clean the filters. This process takes approximately 8 to 10 minutes and this can cause pressure to drop. Also the time of year makes a difference; the demand for waters triples during the summer months.

Reducing the usage at your home during the peak demands will reduce the strain on the system during those peak demands and make your appliances and sprinklers work more efficiently. Checking your sprinkler timer and changing watering times to out side the peak demand periods can help greatly to maintain adequate water system pressure.

Hydrant Flushing 

The City pumps all of its water from ground water wells; the water is treated, filtered, stored, and distributed throughout the City. Even when the water is filtered we will still get small amounts of minerals in our finished water. These minerals over time can build and develop sediment. The change in demand from winter to summer can change the direction of flow in the system and sediment can then be distributed in the system and pulled into your house. Water division staff attempts to eliminate this problem by flowing large amounts of water through the system through the fire hydrants. This allows us to monitor the system as to where we may have problem areas. If you experience water that is discolored, or contains particles, please do not hesitate to give us a call and explain what you are seeing; the water lines in your area may be in need of flushing. We will send staff out to flush the water lines in the affected area.

Hot Water Heater Flushing

As equally important to City staff flushing the distribution system, residents need to flush their hot water heaters to remove build up of sediment. Over time the sediment can build up in your hot water heater and shorten the life of the appliance. If the minerals build up on or around the heating element these minerals will be cooked. The cooking of the minerals will make a popping sound. When the minerals are cooked it will produce small white particles that can clog fixtures throughout your home. Most manufactures recommend that hot water heaters are flushed every year. If you have the maintenance manual on your hot water heater please follow the directions in the manual. If you no longer have the manual there are numerous sites on the internet that give directions on how to flush your hot water heater.