Photo via City of Merritt

The City of Merritt has eased some water restrictions but its cautioning residents that the water system is not back at full capacity.

In an update Thursday, the City of Merritt says its going back to Level 3 Water Restrictions, meaning people will be able to water their lawns two times a week.

“Residents are always encouraged to practice water conservation efforts,” the update said. “For example, while lawn watering is allowed two times a week, residents may choose to limit their lawn watering to one time a week, or allow their lawns to go dormant.”

The Merritt Spray Park will also resume operations tomorrow, July 12.

The easing of restrictions comes after repairs to the Voght Well, which failed on Tuesday morning. That well houses two of Merritt’s five water pumps.

Merritt CAO Cynthia While told Radio NL that a gasket burst and sprayed water onto the electrical system at such a high rate that it took the paint off the walls.

“The manufacturer of the SCADA system which monitors the pump usage and how much water we’re producing, they suggested 48 hours to let it dry out before it is assessed by the electricians,” White said Wednesday.

In Thursday’s update, Merritt staff say that assessment found that some of the electrical components had failed.

“While these pumps are now functional, the electrical system for water treatment is not yet working,” the update said. “Crews are working on sourcing materials and establishing timelines for a complete repair. These two wells will not be put back into service until the water treatment system is functional.”

It does not though that the City of Merritt has been able to increase the output of its three remaining water pumps to fill reservoirs to a point where it is able to “maintain normal service in the short term.”

“The conservation efforts of all residents, and the diligent work of our expert staff and contractors, have enabled the City to fill the reservoirs and maintain full supply levels during this time of disruption,” the update said.

“Please keep in mind that the City is not back to full operational capacity. However, in the event of an emergency, the City is now able to deal with any urgent water supply issues, such as to extinguish a fire.”

It also cautions residents that there is no back-up supply of potable water should another pump fail before the Voght Well is fully operational.