California Water Service - Bear Gulch

CROSS-CONNECTION CONTROL PROGRAM

To ensure the high-quality municipal water we deliver remains uncompromised throughout our distribution system, California Water maintains a robust cross-connection control program. This critical initiative prevents customer activities from impacting our public water supply.

Our specialized cross-connection control team ensures that:

• All existing backflow prevention devices undergo annual testing
• All nonresidential connections receive thorough assessment
• New commercial and residential assemblies are properly installed and managed

Last year, our specialists oversaw installation of 2,826 new assemblies and testing of 36,433 backflow prevention assemblies across our service area.

As a resident, you serve as the first line of defense against system contamination. Even minor home improvement projects can create potential hazards, so always adhere to plumbing codes and standards. When in doubt, consult a professional plumber.

Common cross-connections to watch for include:

• Garden hoses connected without simple hose-type vacuum breakers (available at home improvement stores)
• Improperly installed toilet tank fill valves lacking required air gaps between valve/refill tube
• Landscape irrigation systems without appropriate backflow prevention on supply lines

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I identify an MTUD employee?
   All MTUD employees wear uniforms with the MTUD logo clearly visible on their shirts. They also carry official photo ID cards that should be prominently displayed. If you have questions about an employee's identity, please call (609) 655-1050 or (732) 521-1700.
2. Why is chlorine present in my water?
   A century ago, serious illnesses like typhoid fever and cholera posed significant threats to communities across the United States due to bacteria and viruses in public water supplies. For nearly 100 years, water providers have used chlorine as an effective disinfectant to eliminate these harmful microorganisms. According to EPA and other health organizations, chlorine remains one of the most efficient methods for killing potentially harmful pathogens. Federal and state regulations, including the Safe Drinking Water Act, mandate disinfection of all public water sources. Even when alternative disinfection methods like UV light or ozonation are used, EPA rules still require maintaining chlorine residual throughout the distribution system.

   If you're sensitive to chlorine taste or smell, you can:

   • Use a carbon pour-through filter (Brita, Pur, Ametek, etc.)
   • Fill a container and let it sit uncovered in the refrigerator briefly to allow chlorine to dissipate
3. What causes the white residue in my coffee pot or cookware?
   Water contains natural minerals that remain when water evaporates or is heated. These minerals and the water itself are completely safe, but they can leave spots on glassware, coffee pots, and shower doors—commonly called "hard water stains." Sometimes excessive dish detergent can also cause spotting. These spots typically can be removed by washing and/or reducing detergent usage.
4. Where is my home's water shut-off valve?
   Typically, the shut-off valve is located at the water meter or near where the service line enters your home. Every household member should know its location and how to operate it. In emergencies like burst pipes, quick action can prevent costly water damage. Most water valves close by turning the handle clockwise. If a valve won't turn easily, don't force it as this could cause breakage—instead, consider having it repaired.
5. What is the white material in my faucet strainer?
   This may result from deterioration of the dip tube in your water heater. Water heaters manufactured between 1991-1996 are particularly susceptible to this issue as some dip tubes have been known to disintegrate. If you notice this material in your faucet aerators (strainers), you can either replace the damaged dip tube or replace the entire water heater. Contact us for guidance before taking action.
6. Who is responsible for the service line supplying water to my home?
   MTUD is responsible for the line connecting the water main to your property up to the curb stop. Everything from the curb stop to and throughout your home is the homeowner's responsibility. The same applies to sewer laterals. Exceptions exist for communities like Clearbrook, Encore, Rossmoor, and the Ponds, where "gang" meters serve multiple homes. In these cases, the section is responsible for all service lines after the meter pit.
7. Who is responsible for the sewer line connecting to the sanitary sewer?
   As with water lines, MTUD is responsible for sewer lines up to the curb stop, with homeowners responsible for everything from the curb stop to their home. The same exceptions apply for communities with "gang" meters.
8. Who owns the water meter?
   MTUD owns and maintains your water meter, which is why state law requires that during normal business hours, MTUD staff must be allowed access for maintenance and reading purposes.