Q. Why do I have “Rusty Water” sometimes?: Residents from throughout the distribution system occasionally experience reddish or brownish discolored water.

A. This is usually caused by an increased flow through the distribution water mains, which dislodges the deposits. It usually is not a health hazard, but consumers should refrain from using the water until the disturbance is over. After that, the water should be flushed until it clears before use.

Q. Why is “Chlorine” added to the water?:

A. chlorine is added to the drinking water as a disinfectant. We add chlorine the water to maintain an adequate chlorine concentration throughout the distribution system of 0.20 mg/L, as required by the EPA. The use of chlorine has virtually eliminated the outbreak of such diseases as typhoid fever. Virtually all public health service and world health organizations endorse the use of fluoride in drinking water.

Q. Why is my water cloudy sometimes?

A. Cloudy water is usually caused by the release of dissolved air for the water. This is quite common and harmless. If you watch the glass of water closely, the air, “cloudiness” moves upward and out of the water. Cloudiness can also be caused by minerals in the water coming out of solution.

Q. Why is fluoride added to the water?:

A. Fluoride occurs naturally in Lake Erie water. We supplement the level of fluoride to an optimal level of approximately 1.0 mg/L. Fluoride is added to the water to protect teeth from cavities.

Q. Does Elyria check our water for Bacteria?:

A. The Elyria Water Pumping Plant tests water for coliform bacteria on a routine basis. Coliform bacteria are a group of bacteria that can indicate contamination. Virtually all public health service and world health organizations endorse the use of fluoride in drinking water.

Q. Does Elyria check for Cryptosporidium?:

A. The Elyria Water Pumping Plant test twice monthly for cryptosporidium, a microscopic organism that primarily comes from human and animal waste is is naturally present in surface water.