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1. Why does my water sometimes look dirty or cloudy?

Cloudy Water - Water is cloudy when air gets in and makes tiny bubbles. The bubbles are harmless and will disappear if you let the water sit in a glass for a few minutes.

Dirty Water - Usually when water looks dirty, it’s because of changes in the way the water delivery system is being operated. When the direction that water flows in the pipe is changed-for maintenance work on a water main, when a fire hydrant is broken in a car accident, or there is a break in a water main- materials at the bottom of the pipes get stirred up. Usually, the water looks dirty for a short time and you shouldn’t drink it until it looks clear. One way to speed the dirty water out of your own pipes is to run all of your faucets for a few minutes. If the water is still not clean, then do the same thing again every half hour or so. The problem should go away within two to four hours. If it doesn’t, call 323-587-5969.

2. Why does my water sometimes taste or smell funny?

When your water tastes or smells funny, the problem might be in the water or it may not. Odors may actually be coming from your sink drain where bacteria grow on hair, soap, food and other things that get trapped. Gases in the drain that smell get stirred up when water pours into the pipe. Odor can also come from bacteria growing in water heaters—usually ones that have been turned off for a while or have the thermostat set too low.

3. Why does my water leave spots on my glasses, coffeepot, and showerhead?

There are minerals in water that are white and settle when water is heated, cooled, or evaporates. The spots contain nothing harmful. Filling your coffeepot with vinegar and letting it sit overnight, usually removes the spots. Make sure to rinse well before using. You can also clean your showerhead by soaking it in a vinegar-filled bowl. There are some store products you can use to avoid spotting when glasses are washed and allowed to air dry.

4. If my water looks, tastes, or smells funny, is it safe to drink?

Many people think that if their water looks, tastes or smells funny, it will make them sick if they drink it. In fact, the things that most commonly cause tap water to look, taste or smell strange aren’t harmful to drink.
But sometimes a strange look, taste or smell is a signal that you shouldn’t drink the water. For example, if your water all of a sudden looks dirty, you shouldn’t drink it until the water runs clear. If you have any questions, call 323-587-5969.

5. Can pregnant women drink tap water?

If you are pregnant and have any questions about drinking water straight from the tap, talk to your doctor.

6. How can I find out what’s in my water?

Every year the City of Huntington Park publishes and mails to all customers an annual water quality report. The free report gives the results of the tests it does in order to make sure your water meets federal and state drinking water regulations. The report also explains where your water comes from and includes other useful information.