March April 2024 Currents

Sprinkler Maintenance 101

How to get your system ready for spring

Spring is upon us, and it’s the perfect time to ensure that your sprinkler system is in top working condition. Regular maintenance of your sprinkler system is essential to keep it functioning at its best and prevent costly repairs in the future.

Here are some tips to help you get your sprinkler system ready for spring: Check for damage Inspect your sprinkler heads and pipes for damage. Replace any that are broken or cracked. Do this before you begin to use the sprinklers to avoid wasting water.

Keep your drinking water safe

Backflow devices are crucial for protecting your drinking water. Backflow prevention involves the implementation of valves and other mechanisms that can be installed on a water supply line. These backflow devices work by effectively preventing contaminants from flowing back from your home or business into the main drinking water source.

Don’t forget to mark your calendar for a quarterly inspection of your sprinkler system throughout the year to prevent future mishaps, and keep your lawn and garden looking their best.

Clean sprinkler heads and pipes Over time, sprinkler heads and pipes can become clogged with dirt, debris, and other sediments. Clean them out using a brush or compressed air to keep water flowing without obstructions. Be careful not to damage the heads.

Adjust sprinkler heads Ensure your sprinkler heads are pointing in the right direction and reach the desired area. Check for any leaks or overspray that might lead to water waste and fix the issue.

Test the system Once you’ve made the necessary repairs and adjustments, run a test cycle to verify that everything is functioning correctly. Observe if the system is working as expected.

By following these tips, you can ensure your sprinkler system is working efficiently and prevent water wastage. Regular maintenance is essential to keep your sprinkler system functioning properly for years.

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Enhancing safety and aesthetics

Landscaping tips for padmount transformers

When it comes to landscaping around electrical transformers in your yard, it’s important to prioritize safety and allow utility crews to work efficiently. To ensure a safe working environment and maintain access to the transformer, it’s important to keep a clear area of 9 feet in front and 3 feet above the transformer.

While landscaping options may be limited due to these requirements, there are still suitable choices that can enhance the appearance of the area surrounding the transformer. Here are a few recommendations:

Ground cover plants: Opt for low-growing ground cover plants that stay under a few inches in height. These plants can add a touch of greenery and help prevent soil erosion. Examples include creeping thyme, periwinkle, or creeping juniper.

Grass: Planting grass is an excellent choice for maintaining a clear area around the transformer. Choose a grass type that is well-suited for our climate and can be easily maintained at a short height, avoiding the need for frequent mowing.

Mulch: Another option is to create a mulched area around the transformer. Mulch not only adds a clean and tidy appearance but also helps conserve moisture and suppress weed growth. Choose a lowmaintenance mulch material such as wood chips or shredded bark.

Remember, the main focus of landscaping around transformers is to prioritize safety and accessibility for utility crews. Avoid planting tall shrubs, trees, or any vegetation that may obstruct access or potentially interfere with electrical infrastructure.

By keeping the area clear and utilizing suitable landscaping options, you can maintain a visually appealing space while ensuring the safety and functionality of your electrical transformer.

Simplify your finances with Budget Billing

Are you tired of unpredictable monthly utility bills wreaking havoc on your budget? Do you wish there was a way to minimize those financial peaks and valleys? Look no further than Budget Billing – the solution that can assist you in managing your monthly Vera Water and Power bills. With Budget Billing, you can say goodbye to the guesswork of fluctuating bills and embrace a more consistent payment structure. By spreading out your yearly energy costs into equal monthly installments, you can take control of your finances and eliminate the stress of high winter and summer bills.

Spring is the best time to start enjoying the benefits of Budget Billing. To start the process of paying a consistent monthly amount, all you need to do is reach out to our office. Our team will provide you with all the information you need to determine if Budget Billing is right for you.

JOIN US FOR OUR MONTHLY BOARD MEETING!

Are you curious about how decisions are made at Vera Water and Power? Well, you’re in luck because we want you to be informed and involved in the governance of our utility.

Our board meetings take place on the second Wednesday of every month and start at 6:30 p.m. You’ll find us at the Vera office, where you can learn more about how decisions that impact your utility services are made. It’s a chance to dive deep into the process and see firsthand how things work.

It’s important to note that our board meetings follow a predetermined agenda. To make sure that your ideas or concerns are addressed, we recommend calling us in advance at 888-774-8272. We’ll help coordinate your topic of interest for discussion during the meeting.

We’re committed to keeping you informed and involved in the governance of your utility. So mark your calendar and come to a board meeting. Everyone is welcome, and we’re excited to have you there.

Just in time for spring cleaning, meet Vera Water and Power customer Wendi Eva

Today, we want to introduce you to Wendi Eva, a Vera Water and Power customer who has a passion for organization and creating serene spaces. She has inspired many in our community to embrace the joy of decluttering and mindful living.

As a child, Wendi was naturally inclined to organize her closet and books with precision. However, as a busy Spokane Valley teacher, artist, and mom, finding the time and

free home became challenging. That is until she discovered Marie Kondo—renowned tidying expert and best-selling author—who lit a flame within her for creating organized spaces.

Following her newfound inspiration, Wendi wanted to help others reclaim their spaces and find harmony within their homes. She posts helpful DIY content on her Facebook page, facebook.com/ BreathingRooms. By incorporating principles of mindfulness and intentionality, she guides people to let go of unnecessary belongings and create an environment that nurtures their happiness.

values. Her passion for sustainable practices also shines through, as she encourages the reuse and repurposing of items.

Wendi’s approach to organization is about more than simply tidying up; it’s a holistic process that allows us to take inventory of our lives and align our physical spaces with our

Call 811 before you dig

Just a friendly reminder about an important Washington State law. If you’re planning any digging projects, you must notify all utility providers beforehand. Safety first, right?

Before you grab that shovel, make sure to give a ring to 811 at least 2 business days before you start digging. They’ll swing into action and mark the location of all known underground power and water lines in the area where you intend to dig. We want to avoid any surprises underground!

Remember, safety is our number one priority. To make things even easier, the utility lines are color-coded. Red is for electricity, blue for water, orange for telephone/TV cable, yellow for gas, and green for wastewater. These colors will help you identify what lies beneath the surface.

So, let’s play it safe and avoid any unintentional encounters with those underground lines. Give 811 a call, wait for the marks, and dig with confidence!

She reminds us that organizing can be transformative physically and emotionally and that it is never too late to start creating a space that brings joy and peace into our lives. Spring is great time to get started!

motivation to maintain a clutter-

BEFORE AFTER

Keep your drinking water safe

Backflow devices are crucial for protecting your drinking water.

By utilizing check valves, air chambers, and vacuum breakers, these devices ensure that pressure does not build up in the pipe, which could lead to the escape of contaminants into the main water supply.

It is important to note that regular maintenance is required for backflow devices. Be sure to schedule your annual backflow device test to guarantee that these devices are functioning effectively. By doing so, you can ensure the continued protection of your drinking water supply.

To learn more about the importance of backflow devices and how they can safeguard your drinking water, visit verawaterandpower.com.

RECOATING THE RESERVOIRS TO ENSURE LONG-TERM RELIABILITY

Water infrastructure is a crucial component of our daily lives, providing essential resources for drinking, cooking, and sanitation. The importance of maintaining this infrastructure cannot be overstated. Investing in the upkeep of our water systems ensures that we have access to reliable and safe water for generations to come.

Vera Water and Power is committed to maintaining and improving our water infrastructure. An essential part of that commitment is the upcoming recoating of three of our reservoirs.

The first one to be completed is the 4-million-gallon reservoir located at the end of Vera Crest Drive, scheduled to begin in the fall of 2024.

This reservoir is a critical component of our water infrastructure, providing storage for drinking water and firefighting. The reservoir has been in operation for over 50 years, and, over time, routine maintenance is necessary. Recoating the reservoir interior ensures continued protection from corrosion and maintains the water quality we rely on.

The recoating process is a comprehensive project that involves draining the reservoir, removing existing coatings and repainting the interior with a new, high-performance coating material. The project is expected to take several months to complete, depending on factors such as weather and the extent of the work that needs to be done. Once the 4-million-gallon reservoir is complete, work will begin on the other two reservoirs.

Investing in the maintenance of our water infrastructure is crucial for the longterm reliability of our water supply. Recoating the reservoir is a proactive step to ensure the continued delivery of safe, high-quality drinking water to our communities.

Honoring those who power our community

Every year, on April 18th, we celebrate Lineman Appreciation Day — a day dedicated to recognizing and honoring the dedicated individuals who work to power our communities. These unsung heroes brave all types of weather conditions, often working long hours in challenging environments to ensure that we have access to reliable electricity. Linemen play a vital role in maintaining and repairing power lines, ensuring that electricity reaches our homes, businesses, and essential services. From restoring power after storms and natural disasters to routine

maintenance and upgrades, linemen are the backbone of our electrical infrastructure.

On Lineman Appreciation Day, it’s important to take a moment to express our gratitude to these hardworking individuals who often go unnoticed in their efforts to keep the lights on. Whether it’s climbing poles, repairing lines, or troubleshooting electrical issues, linemen work diligently to ensure that we have access to the essential resource of electricity.

Thank you to all the linemen for your hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment. You

are the backbone of our electrical infrastructure, and we salute you on Lineman Appreciation Day and beyond.