SYSTEM PRESSURE ADVISORY RESCINDED – VOLUNTARY CONSERVATION REQUESTED
The Island-Wide System Pressure Advisory for Bald Head Island has been rescinded. View the notice HERE. There are still some leaks impacting the system, and we are requesting that folks conserve water usage as much as possible. Village Utilities believes that they should have all the leaks resolved by next week, and another announcement will be made when the repairs are complete and voluntary conservation efforts can cease.
Village Utilities announced at the regular Council meeting this morning that all leaks were not on the Village system side, causing the loss of approximately 1 million gallons of drinking water over a 3-day period (for reference, usage is about 80,000 per day). A majority of the leaks were small and on the residential and commercial side of the meter, which, in combination, impacted the system.
There was an unmetered six-inch fire line (required by Fire Code for commercial properties) that was discovered leaking (at around 11:00 a.m. on 2/2), which contributed to a large amount of water/pressure loss. It was not a village water main that broke.
Impacted properties are being contacted by our Utilities Clerk. Shut-offs are taking place at the meter or at owner shut-off valves for those who have them. Once repairs are made, Village Utilities is turning service back on.
The Village is working on some educational material to supplement/enhance the annual winter reminders (Tips to Prevent Frozen Water Pipes ). We will also be reaching out through our Development Service Department with plumbing contractors who work on the island, so they can help individual property owners prevent burst pipes in extreme cold temperatures.
One recommendation the Village has for all BHI owners is to install an owner shut-off valve if they do not already have one.
Owner Shut-Off Valves
Prior to recent freezing temperature conditions, Village Utilities offered to shut off water service for customers to help avoid emergency situations in which pipes burst and cause damage to homes. Village Utilities would like BHI property owners to consider installing an “owners shut off valve.” This valve can be and should be installed by a licensed plumber and will be located behind the Village’s meter box. This investment will give you, the property owner, or your property manager, a way to turn the water service off and on conveniently, and without worrying about remembering to have your water service reconnected by Village Utilities for a fee each time (currently $67.99 per reconnect).