Backflow Testing in Winchester, CA

Signs you need backflow service

• An EMWD request for a test report or a site survey
• Water draining from the relief port of an assembly
• A hose or fill line sitting in a stock tank or trough
• Drips, cracks or corrosion on a device near the meter
• Weak pressure to irrigation or outbuildings beyond the device
• A newly bought rural property with no test records

Backflow rules in Winchester

Winchester is an unincorporated community about 8 miles southwest of Hemet, once rural and agricultural, that grew quickly during the 2000s with new subdivisions, schools and parks added later. EMWD lists it among the unincorporated communities it serves, though it wasn't confirmed that every rural parcel is on EMWD water, so check your bill. EMWD's program covers customer site surveys and inspection and testing of new backflow devices, and test and maintenance reports go to Backflow@emwd.org. EMWD hasn't stated a test interval on the page reviewed, so follow the date on your notice.

EMWD says its responsibility for water quality runs until the water reaches the meter, and it refers breaks on the customer's side to the homeowner. A backflow assembly past the meter is the owner's to maintain. Winchester's water usually comes from the Hemet Water Filtration Plant, rated moderately hard at an average of 5.1 grains per gallon, and is disinfected with chloramine. Where an older agricultural parcel still has water lines running to barns, pens or pasture, those lines are where cross connections are most likely to hide.

What affects cost

• Visit type. A pass is quicker than a rebuild and retest.
• Assembly. Reduced pressure assemblies have more parts than double checks or vacuum breakers.
• Rural layout. Long runs to outbuildings may each need their own protection.
• Replacement. Cracked or outdated units get replaced.
• Permits. Winchester work goes through the County of Riverside Department of Building and Safety, which requires a permit to replace water lines; its permit counter is (951) 955-1800.

When you call

You'll be connected with an independent plumber who works in Winchester. Explain what the device serves and share any EMWD request. If a device is leaking hard, close your own shutoff past the meter; EMWD's outage and trouble line is 800-698-0400 for problems on its side.