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1. When I turn on the faucet, the water sputters. Why?

You have air in your lines. Turn on your tap slowly and run the water until the sputtering stops.

2. The water is discolored. What should I do?

Flush water pipes by running the water until it is clear.

Do not wash clothes if the water is discolored. Wait until the water runs clear at the tap. Wash a load of dark clothes first.

3. Why does my water have a strong smell?

The smell is probably chlorine. Often, water systems will increase chlorine levels to disinfect the pipes.

4. What should I do if my water pressure is low?

Check the faucet screens for trapped particles. Remove the screens and clean out any particles. Put the screens back on the faucet.

5. Do I need to clean out my faucets?

Yes. You should flush your faucets after the drinking water advisory.

• Turn on the main water valve.

• Turn on the cold water tap at all faucets and run the water until you feel a change in temperature
(i.e. the water gets noticeably colder). This may take several minutes. Begin with the faucet that is highest up in your home or building and then open the other faucets one at a time moving from the highest floor to the lowest.

6. Do I need to clean appliances?

Yes. Read the owner’s manual for directions to clean appliances such as water softeners and filter units.

7. My refrigerator has a water dispenser/ice maker. Do I need to clean them?

Yes. Water dispensers and ice makers are connected to your water line. You need to flush and clean them. Follow the directions in the owner’s manual or:

• Change the filter cartridges.

• Throw out ice.

• Flush the water dispenser for 3 to 5 minutes.

• Run the ice maker for 1 hour.

• Throw out all the ice.

• Wash and sanitize bin areas.

8. Do I need to do something for the water softener?

Yes. You may need to run through a regeneration cycle. Follow the directions in the owner’s manual.

9. I have a water treatment unit for the house. Does it need special care?

Yes. Change the filter cartridges. Some units need disinfecting. Follow the directions in the unit’s owner’s manual.

10. I already drank the water. Will I get sick?

Most people who happen to drink this water will not get sick.

If you do get sick, the symptoms are similar to food poisoning: nausea, diarrhea, cramps, and possibly a mild fever. These symptoms are not unique to exposure to potential contaminants/organisms in the water, and a doctor's involvement is key to identifying the cause of your illness. If your doctor suspects a waterborne illness, you may be asked to provide blood and/or stool samples.

11. Is it safe to water my garden and house plants?

Yes, you can use the tap water for household plants and gardens.

12. Do I need to worry about my fish or aquatic pets (e.g., reptiles, frogs)?

Most germs that infect people do not infect reptiles or fish. If your water system is using more chlorine or changing disinfection, be cautious about changing the water in your fish tank or aquarium. Contact your local pet store or veterinarian for more advice.

13. Should water pitchers with a filter/dispenser be cleaned?

Yes. Most of these units are not capable of removing pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and protozoa. The few that are designed to do so may still require disinfection to address viruses and must be properly operated and diligently maintained to ensure effective treatment.