ANNANDALE, Va. — The Fairfax County Water Authority (FCWA) completed its pipe replacement work on Cherry Lane, Cindy Lane, Exeter St., Hillbrook Drive, Monterey Drive, Oak Court and Pacific Lane in late August. The project was executed with few issues.
However, high water pressure has been reported by some residents on Cherry Lane. Pressure readings approaching 90 pounds per square inch (PSI) reportedly were measured by water authority technicians. Water pressure in homes should not exceed 80 PSI.
The water authority has made a temporary fix to address the problem on Cherry Lane, but will soon implement a permanent solution. This will involve linking two separate water supply lines that run down Hillbrook Drive. The aim is to moderate pressure on the branch lines feeding Cherry Lane and other affected streets.
One homeowner recently observed leaks in washing machine seals. He and another Cherry Lane resident found that pressure in their homes exceeded 90 PSI.
If residents see leaks in their interior plumbing piping, valves, or appliances such as washing machines, they may want to contact the Fairfax County Water Authority to have their water pressure checked at an outside spigot.
In some instances, it may be necessary for homeowners to install a pressure reduction valve in their home to address the problem, according to Amanda Schumacher, who manages water authority construction projects. If you are experiencing a water-related emergency, call FCWA at 703-698-5613.
While FCWA has completed virtually all the pipe replacement work in Hillbrook-Tall Oaks, another project at the edge of the neighborhood looms. Sometime in 2027, a section of water pipe running down Hillbrook Drive to Little River Turnpike is slated to be rerouted.
This will occur in conjunction with the installation of sidewalks on the south side of Little River Turnpike running from Hillbrook Drive east to Little River Run. No sidewalks now exist along this section of the roadway.