HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019-10-02 Insert - Care and Maintenance of Flow Emitter
183037 RR145 (Box 130), Brooks, AB T1R 1B2 Check us out on social media
Phone: 403-362-3266
Fax: 888-361-7921
Email: administration@newellmail.ca
Web: www.countyofnewell.ab.ca
Important Information Regarding Your Water Service
The equipment provided as part of your rural water service is your responsibility to care for, maintain, and
replace if failure occurs. As of January 1, 2020, the County will no longer be providing replacement parts
for the flow emitter assembly that have failed due to several reasons. This insert will serve as notice that
the landowner is responsible for future care, maintenance, and replacement of these pieces of equipment,
as well as provide some helpful information and best practices to ensure your equipment continues to
operate as it was designed.
DID YOU KNOW?!?
The operating pressure of the County Rural Water System can be anywhere between 20 and 120 PSI
(pounds per square inch)
o This is why we recommend using pipe rated for 200 PSI and potable water on your side of the
system.
o At some of the higher operating pressures, one small leak can turn into a large leak very quickly.
Water at this pressure can cut through the brass fittings in your equipment if not sealed properly.
The valve that shuts your water off in your cistern/tank uses the same technology as a toilet bowl float.
o The buoyant force of the water raises the ball, allowing a valve to close and stop water flow into your
tank. It is important to ensure you have a 12” stainless steel rod, a 6” float ball, and the rod is set as
close to parallel with the ground as possible. This will create the greatest closing force possible.
How many times have you walked into a bathroom and heard a toilet running? Consider this when
thinking about your water service.
o You are free to look at other options for shutting the water off when it is full. Electric Solenoid, plastic
valve, etc…
Ice and/or debris in your cistern can be detrimental to the life of your equipment
o Any form of ice, frost, or debris that gets in your cistern can cause the shut off valve to not seal
properly. When the valve doesn’t seal properly, the high water pressure can compromise the valve.
o Consider using a heat lamp, or a floating cattle water heater in your tank over the winter months if it is
susceptible to freezing conditions.
You are not allowed to operate any of the County owned valves (curb stops) or hydrants on the distribution
system.
o Potable water delivery is a great responsibility. Only those trained to operate the system are
authorized to do so.
o Incorrectly operating a valve can cause water flow to fluctuate suddenly, sending a pressure wave
down the line. This creates unnecessary maintenance and repair costs.
183037 RR145 (Box 130), Brooks, AB T1R 1B2 Check us out on social media
Phone: 403-362-3266
Fax: 888-361-7921
Email: administration@newellmail.ca
Web: www.countyofnewell.ab.ca
o If you need to turn your water service off, there is a ball valve on the flow emitter that you can operate
manually (see picture on reverse). If you require it shut off at the curb stop please call NRSC at 403-
794-4000. There is a charge for each the turn on and turn off at the curb stop as per the County of
Newell’s Schedule of Fees Bylaw.
Best Practices:
Don’t Forget your Flow Emitter!
Check your flow emitter at least once weekly.
Your water level should never rise above the
float ball. If it does, turn your ball valve off then
troubleshoot the issue.
Set your Levels for Success
Ensure your rod is set as close to parallel with
the water level as possible. This will ensure
you have the maximum closing force on the
valve.
You have been provided with a rail system to
mount in your cistern. Consider dropping your
levels to the amount of water you need. This
will ensure your water is refreshed often and
help reduce freezing.
Frost and Ice are the Enemies
Any formation of frost or ice in your cistern is
detrimental to the life of your equipment.
Consider installing a heating source through
the winter months to ensure your cistern
remains frost free!
12” SS Rod and 6” Float Ball
Brass Float Valve
Dual Check Valve
Flow Emitting Orifice
Pressure Reducing Valve (If
Necessary)
Y-Strainer with Screen
Ball Valve for Landowner Shut
Off