Backflow prevention assemblies help protect the public water system from possible contamination from non-potable water sources, such as lawn irrigation, boilers, fire sprinkler systems, wells, pools, hot tubs, commercial equipment, and medical equipment. The State of Oregon requires backflow prevention assemblies on any water service that has the potential to contaminate public drinking water. All backflow prevention assemblies are required to be tested annually by a certified tester. For more information, visit our website at https://www.mc-power.com/water/water-quality/backflow-prevention/
Water Quality
For water quality or pressure concerns, please call us at 503-472-6158. If you have an emergency when the office is closed, we can be reached at the same number.
McMinnville’s water is soft. The hardness of water refers to water’s ability to produce suds with soap. The harder the water, the more soap is needed to produce lather. Surface water from the Pacific Northwest is some of the softest water in the country.
McMinnville Water & Light processes sewer charges for the City of McMinnville. Residential sewer charges are based on water usage during the months of November through March.
What is the water pressure at my house?
McMinnville’s water system operates by gravity. The system water pressure is influenced by the hydraulic characteristics of the water system. Water pressure at the customer’s meter is normally 85-100 pounds per square inch (psi). Most water services have a pressure reducing valve (PRV) installed after the meter to reduce the pressure entering the private plumbing system. Most pressure problems are caused by missing or failing PRVs. PRVs are part of the private plumbing system and are maintained by property owners.