Annual water meter reading season is here
HOW TO PREPARE
Identifying our meter readers
When our meter readers stop by, you’ll spot them thanks to their bright Vera Water and Power safety vests. They also carry identification cards and are happy to show them if you ask. Have a question or need to make sure everything’s on the up and up? Just give us a call at 509-924-3800.
Keeping your water meter accessible for accurate reading
It’s the time of year when we read your water meter.
Our meter readers sometimes run into tricky or sometimes dangerous situations. When that happens, they might not be able to read your meter.
• You can help by keeping your pets inside. We may have to skip reading your meter if there’s an unrestrained animal.
• Clear the area around your meter vault so it’s free from of weeds, flowers, bushes and debris.
• Temporarily unlock gates blocking the meter.
• If the meter isn’t accessible, we’ll contact you to schedule an appointment.
PROTECT YOUR WATER METER FROM FREEZING
It’s not just your water pipes that can freeze. Be sure to protect your water meter, too. Take these steps now to avoid trouble later.
Water meter insulation blanket: Be sure to protect your water meter with a foam insulation blanket. The blankets which are easy to install are free and available at our office.
Water meter vault cover: The vault cover must be in place. If the cover is missing, broken or cracked, give us a call at 888-772-8272 for help. We sell replacements.
Chargers are sneaky energy vampires!
Even when your devices aren’t plugged in, these little culprits keep sipping electricity. Make it a habit to unplug them — it’s a small change that can lead to big savings over time.
Beware of utility scams
Utility scams are on the rise. These bad players pose as a utility representative and try to trick you into giving them your personal information or money. These scammers use high-pressure tactics like threatening immediate disconnection if payment isn’t made.
Protect yourself
• Vera Water and Power will never demand immediate payment over the phone or via prepaid debit cards, gift cards or wire transfers.
• If you get an unsolicited call claiming to be us, hang up! Call Vera directly using our official phone number 888-774-8272.
• Never give personal information like your social security number or bank details to unsolicited callers or emailers.
If in doubt, hang up!
Preparing your sprinkler system for colder weather
The deep freeze of the Northwest may not be here, yet. But winter is coming. Now’s the time to get your sprinkler system ready for colder months ahead.
FOUR STEPS TO WINTERIZE:
1. Turn off the water supply to your sprinkler system.
2. Drain any remaining water from the pipes. Do this by opening the manual drain valves or using compressed air to blow out the water.
3. Insulate any above-ground pipes to prevent freezing. You can use foam insulation.
4. If you have a backflow preventer, make sure to drain it as well. This device prevents water from flowing back into our water supply, so it's important to keep it in good shape.
Your drinking water: Safe, healthy and clean
We take the safety of your drinking water very seriously. We have a comprehensive inspection program in place to make sure the water we deliver to your tap meets or exceeds all state and federal regulations.
We are proud to report that in 2023, our water supply met or exceeded all Washington state and federal regulations.
Last year, we conducted a total of 300 clinical lab tests on our water supply, checking for the presence of contaminants such as total coliform, E. coli, and other potential threats to water quality. Our third-party, independent lab adheres to strict testing protocols to maintain the highest standards of water safety.
As part of our ongoing commitment to water quality, we collect water samples from at least 25 different locations across our service territory monthly. These samples are analyzed according to Washington state requirements. The test, and the results help us ensure that your drinking water consistently meets state health standards.
Our 2023 water quality report is available on our website. This report provides detailed information about the quality of your drinking water, including the results of our rigorous testing and monitoring processes.
Our drinking water is free of PFAS
We’ve tested our water for PFAS chemicals, following strict EPA guidelines. The results showed no detectable PFAS, confirming that your drinking water is clean and safe. We’ll continue monitoring and testing to ensure compliance with regulations and protect your health.
PFAS are man-made chemicals used since the 1940s. Their widespread use and persistence have raised concerns about water supply contamination nationwide.
WATER SAVER TIP
Want to be a water-saver without giving up your invigorating morning shower? Swap out your old showerhead for a low-flow model! These handy gadgets are like magic— they cut down on water use while still giving you that refreshing blast you love. It’s an easy switch.
Insulation, windows and doors: Rebates available now
If you're thinking about weatherizing your home, you're on the right track to saving energy and making your home more comfortable. We're here to help guide you through the process.
Here's our advice to get you started on the right foot:
1. Get at least three bids from different contractors. This way, you can compare prices and find the best deal for your budget.
2. Once you've chosen a contractor, check out our rebates on insulation, windows, and doors. These rebates can help you save money on your weatherization project.
3. If you have any questions or need further assistance, visit “Rebates and Savings” on our website or email EnergyEfficiency@verawaterandpower.com.
CONTRACTOR FINDER: We can help you find trusted weatherization, water heating and HVAC professionals. Visit verawaterandpower.com/rebates-and-savings.
4-million-gallon reservoir on Vera Crest Drive first to undergo recoating
Vera Water and Power will recoat three reservoirs, starting with the 4-million-gallon reservoir on Vera Crest Drive this fall. This 50-yearold reservoir is crucial for storing drinking water and firefighting. The recoating process involves draining, removing old coatings, and repainting the interior, taking several months. This proactive maintenance ensures the longterm reliability and quality of our water supply.
Monthly Vera Board Meetings
WE’RE YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD WATER AND POWER UTILITY. Our board of directors is made up of Vera customers. If you want to know what’s happening at Vera, check out one of our board meetings. The meetings are open to the public, and you are welcome to attend.
The board of directors meets on the second Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the office on Evergreen Road. Meeting agendas and minutes are posted at verawaterandpower.com.