Curb Stop Box
The curb stop box is the tube that allows access to your home’s external shut off valve. It is located in your yard where your service line connects to the Summit Water Distribution Company main line. The top lid should be at grade level. This valve is used to shut off water to your home in the case of an emergency and must be accessible and protected from damage. There should be no large trees or shrubs planted near this valve and associate lined water supply line, as they would need to be removed in the event of a repair. Please note its location as it may save damage inside your home. This valve also is the point of change of responsibility. Any problem after this valve is the responsibility of the homeowner.
Meter
The water meter records all water used by the home. It is usually located in a mechanical room or crawlspace inside the home or business. Meters range in size according to home size from ¾” to 2”. For help with reading your meter see Reading your Meter. The meter is owned by SWDC but must be protected from freezing or other damage by the homeowner.
Transmitter
The transmitter transmits your meters read to our drive-by meter reading software. It is mounted on the outside of the home (visible from the street) and is connected to the meter with a cable encased in conduit. If this cable is cut or damaged please call us.
Upgrades
SWDC is currently in a multi-year program to update all of our meters to a new technology that will eliminate almost all of the need to go into the field to read meters. You will be receiving notifications when we are working in your area. PLEASE RESPOND. The update takes only a few minutes but does require, in most cases, that we have access to your home. The new technology allows for internet access by our shareholders to their meter reads. Your account can also be configured to notify you of suspected leaks.
Backflow Prevention Device
Backflow Prevention Devices (BFP) is required on irrigation systems, fire suppression system and any other source of possible cross connection. They are designed to prevent the backflow of water and possible contamination from the irrigation system into your home. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to maintain and have this device annually tested by a certified backflow technician. A list of commercially available Backflow Technicians can be found at http://www.drinkingwater.utah.gov/backflow_tech.htm
Pressure Reducing Valve
The pressure reducing valve (PRV) reduces the pressure entering the home and protects internal plumbing and appliances from high system pressure. They generally need to be replaced every 10 yrs. To increase pressure inside the home: loosen the lock nut and turn the adjusting screw clockwise. To decrease pressures turn the adjusting screw counterclockwise. Then tighten lock nut. With age the PRV tends to stick. If this occurs it is sometimes possible to temporarily prolong its use by turning the adjusting screw in and out a few times. Count the number of turns and return to original setting. Homeowner is responsible.
Dual Check
Many older homes are equipped with a dual check. It is usually located near the meter. Its purpose was to prevent backflow from a home into our system. It is not necessary and often fails in a closed position. If your home has a dual check it is advisable to have it or the internal mechanisms removed. The homeowner is responsible for this device.