Water Quality
CHWD Water Quality
Testing is conducted on a daily, weekly, quarterly, and annual basis. Water agency laboratories or state-certified water quality laboratories conduct a variety of tests on your drinking water. Testing is conducted for substances such as chlorine residual, turbidity (suspended solids), color, odor, acidity, and similar characteristics.
The annual Consumer Confidence Report, published by the San Juan Water District, summarizes the most recent results of testing of constituents in the drinking water for Citrus Heights Water District and other water districts in our area. A printed copy is mailed to our customers each year. To view the most recent Consumer Confidence Report, click here.
Cross-Connection Control And Backflow Prevention
At CHWD, protecting your drinking water is our highest priority. One important way we safeguard water quality is through implementing a cross-connection control and backflow prevention program.
What is a Cross-Connection?
A cross-connection is any actual or potential link between our potable (drinkable) water supply and contamination—usually through pipes carrying water that isn’t for drinking. Common examples include private irrigation systems, fire sprinklers, and other plumbing systems connected to the public water system.
What is Backflow?
Backflow happens when water flows in the opposite direction in the pipes carrying drinkable water. If water pressure drops below that of the connected piping system, contaminants could enter the public water system.
Why Prevention Matters
Backflow incidents can lead to drinking water contamination. CHWD's cross-connection control program ensures that the water in our pipes remains safe and clean. To prevent this, we:
- Require the installation and maintenance of backflow prevention devices where applicable
- Regularly inspect and test
- Enforce regulations
Required Upgrades for Fire Service Connections
New state regulations require customers with fire protection systems protected by single-check valves to upgrade to a double-check detector assembly. CHWD will be reaching out to affected customers with fire services, advising them they must upgrade no later than July 1, 2034.
Learn More
CHWD wants to partner with our customers to keep our water safe. For additional information on how cross-connection control works, view this helpful fact sheet from the EPA: EPA Cross-Control Connection Fact Sheet.
You can also explore more from:
- University of Southern California Foundation for Cross-Connection Control
- American Water Works Association
If you have questions of need help determining if your property requires a backflow prevention device, feel free to contact us at waterquality@chwd.org. We're happy to help!
