Elevations range from 4,000 to 5,700 feet. Whenever possible, a water storage tank (reservoir) is located higher than the homes it is designed to serve so that the water can flow by gravity. Gravity-flow systems tend to be more reliable during fires or other emergencies that result in power outages because they do not require electrical pumps to operate. Of course not all areas of the District can be supplied by gravity flow; some areas will require pumping. Normally, the reservoirs are filled at night when water use is lowest. The full tanks are then able to supply the higher demand for water in the daytime. Sometimes, due to a fire emergency or construction in the area, high demand slows refilling of the tank, which can result in lowered water pressure.

Pressure Regulators

Some areas may have too much water pressure, which can cause household appliances to malfunction. In those areas, pressure regulators are installed in compliance with local building codes. The pressure regulator provides protection to your house from unexpected water pressure surges.
The pressure regulator is a bell-shaped device and is typically installed on the inlet pipe, next to the hose bib and house valve. The regulators are preset by the manufacturer at about 50 - 60 psi. In most cases, they do not need to be adjusted. Incorrectly adjusting the regulator could cause water pressure that is too low or too high inside the home. FPPUD cannot make repairs or adjust pressure regulators because they are considered part of a homeowner's private water system. We recommend you have a qualified plumber make adjustments.