Important Deadline: All backflow test results must be submitted to Pete’s Mountain Water Company by August 15th annually.
Pete’s Mountain Water Company (PMWC) is required by the Oregon Health Authority to ensure all members with backflow prevention devices complete annual testing and report their results. This mandatory testing protects our entire water system and ensures compliance with state health regulations.
The official Pete’s Mountain Water Company Backflow Assembly Policy can be found in the Document Library.
What is a Backflow Assembly?
A backflow assembly is a mechanical device designed to prevent contaminated water from flowing backward into the public drinking water supply. These assemblies act as a one-way valve system that allows clean water to flow from the public water system into your property while preventing any water from your property from flowing back into the community water system.
Backflow assemblies contain internal components such as check valves, relief valves, and test ports that work together to maintain proper water flow direction. Over time, these components can wear out, become damaged, or accumulate debris, which is why annual testing by certified professionals is essential to ensure the device continues to function properly.
Why Backflow Prevention Matters: Without proper backflow prevention, contaminated water from irrigation systems, pools, or other sources could enter the drinking water supply, potentially affecting the health and safety of all community members.
Understanding Backflow Testing Requirements
The Oregon Health Authority requires approved backflow protection devices for any water service member whose system includes water features such as:
- Private wells
- In-ground irrigation and sprinkler systems
- In-home fire suppression systems
- Swimming pools and hot tubs
- Fountains and decorative water features
- Ponds and water gardens
Your Responsibilities as a PMWC Member
Each member is responsible for:
- Scheduling tests: Contact a certified backflow testing company to schedule annual testing for each backflow device on your property
- Ensuring device functionality: All backflow prevention devices must pass inspection
- Timely reporting: Submit test results to PMWC by August 15th each year
- Multiple device compliance: If you have more than one backflow device, documentation must be provided for all devices
How to Submit Your Test Results
Email your completed backflow test documentation to:
backflowmerrillwater@gmail.com
Address results to: Phillip Merrill, Water System Manager
Penalties for Late Submission
After August 15th deadline:
- You will receive a 60-day shutoff notice through your billing email account
- A $100 late fee will be assessed for every month the report remains overdue
- Late fees will be added to your monthly water bill until documentation is received
- Water service may be disconnected if compliance is not achieved within the notice period
These penalty measures ensure that PMWC can meet its reporting obligations to the Oregon Health Authority and maintain the safety and integrity of our community water system.
Getting Help and Information
Important: The PMWC Board does not complete backflow testing for members and cannot provide recommendations for specific testing service providers.
If you are looking for a company to test your backflow assembly, a list of certified testing services is provided by the State of Oregon here.
If you need assistance determining how many backflow devices require testing and their general location (i.e. south of the driveway, behind the pool, etc.) on your property, contact:
Chris Bang (Accounting Office)
Email: chrisb@taboraccountinggroup.com
Phillip Merrill (Water Manager)
Email: merrillwater@gmail.com
Planning Ahead for Testing
Members are strongly encouraged to schedule their backflow testing appointments early in the year. Certified backflow testing companies often experience lengthy service backlogs during peak testing season, which could prevent you from meeting the August 15th deadline.
To avoid delays and potential penalties:
- Contact testing companies by spring to schedule your appointment
- Confirm that your testing company is certified by the Oregon Health Authority
- Request test results immediately upon completion
- Submit documentation to PMWC promptly, well before the August 15th deadline
Additional Resources
For complete details about Pete’s Mountain Water Company’s backflow prevention policies and procedures, visit our website:
www.petesmountainwatercompany.com
Understanding and complying with these backflow testing requirements protects both your property and our entire community water system. When you complete your annual testing on time, you help ensure that Pete’s Mountain Water Company continues to provide safe, reliable water service to all members while maintaining full compliance with Oregon Health Authority regulations.
Remember: Annual backflow test results are due by August 15th. Plan ahead and schedule your testing early to avoid penalties and service interruption.