MEMORANDUM
To: Builders/Contractors and Future residents
From: Katy Allen, City Administrator
Subject: Water service in higher elevation developments
Date: January 12, 2017
Water Service in Higher Elevation Developments (i.e. Legacy Ridge)
Over the last several years, we have received a number of complaints related to water pressure (psi) and
water flow rates (gpm) from home owners living in developments located in higher elevations. After a
home is constructed, it can be very expensive and inconvenient to modify plumbing decisions that were
made during construction.
The purpose of this memo is to proactively provide information so piping design decisions can be made
by builders and new homeowners in these developments that will optimize water flow rates and water
pressure for future residents.
The Problem:
The water system for new development is designed to provide water pressure within approved guidelines.
In addition, plumbing systems (including pipe sizes) are inspected to insure minimum plumbing code
requirements are met.
However, due to long service lines, changes in elevations (topography and multiple stories), and friction
losses from minimum sized plumbing systems, some homeowners are not content after they move in with
water service (flow and pressure) to their new homes.
This is especially the case when houses are located significantly above street level and bathrooms are
located on the upper story. Also, when an irrigation system is in use, water pressure and flow rates can
also be compromised.
The Solution
Please check with Liberty Lake Sewer & Water District (LLSWD) when purchasing your water service
permit. They can provide info on the design pressure at your meter. If you are building a multi-story
home or are above the street elevation, then I strongly encourage you to contact LLSWD. In these
situations, pressure loss calculations by the house builder are necessary to insure that the service installed
will provide adequate pressures and flow to the future residents.
Please call if you have questions. It is far better that you have an opportunity to make a wise decision
sooner than later.
__________________________________________________________________
22710 E. Country Vista Dr., Liberty Lake, Washington 99019
Phone: 509.755.6700 Fax: 509.755.6713