At McMinnville Water & Light, we understand an abundant source of clean, safe drinking water is essential to our community’s overall quality of life. A secure, reliable water system is important to protect public health, provide fire protection, and support continued community development and economic growth. McMinnville Water & Light continues our commitment to provide our customers with a safe, reliable supply of great-tasting water at an excellent value.
Frequently Asked Questions
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/
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.
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.
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.
