Apple Valley

The City of Apple Valley is committed to delivering safe, clean municipal water to all residents. We work diligently to meet federal and state water quality standards while providing reliable service to our community. This report aims to inform you about your water supply and how to protect our valuable water resources.

In 2017, the Apple Valley Water Treatment Plant (WTP) processed over 2.1 billion gallons of water. Our facility specializes in removing iron and manganese from groundwater sources. While these naturally abundant minerals aren't harmful to health, they can cause household nuisances. Iron levels exceeding 0.3 parts per million (ppm) can stain laundry and fixtures, while manganese above 0.05 ppm may cause discoloration and bitter metallic taste.

Wellhead Protection Program
Our comprehensive wellhead protection strategy safeguards drinking water by managing the capture zone around our wells. This includes proper chemical usage, stormwater management, prompt leak response, and appropriate disposal of pharmaceuticals and chemicals. This program has proven invaluable in protecting our water supply during contamination incidents, allowing us to maintain safe, reliable water through cooperation with state agencies.

System Improvements
In the coming years, we'll be upgrading all residential and commercial water meters with advanced technology allowing remote access to usage data. This new system will enhance customer service through leak detection, improved conservation tools, better billing features, and elimination of manual meter readings.

Water Conservation Regulations
Lawn watering is permitted only before 11 a.m. and after 6 p.m. daily between May 1 and September 30. These restrictions apply to in-ground systems, mechanical sprinklers, and unattended hoses. Users of private wells or alternative water sources must follow the same guidelines. New sod and trees planted within the calendar year are exempt. Hand watering of plants, children's water toys in active use, and non-irrigation uses (like vehicle washing) are not affected by these restrictions.

These conservation measures were implemented to promote environmental stewardship and comply with state regulations while ensuring adequate water supply for household and fire protection needs.

1. Why does my water look cloudy or milky?
   This appearance typically results from harmless air bubbles in the water. If you let the water sit, the air will dissipate and the water will clear. If cloudiness persists, please contact us to investigate.
2. What causes spots on dishes?
   These spots result from hard water minerals remaining after water evaporates. A dishwasher rinse agent can help remove these spots.
3. Is a water softener necessary?
   This is primarily a comfort decision, as hard water isn't harmful to health. Note that softeners typically increase water sodium content, which may be important for people on sodium-restricted diets.
4. Should I install a home filtration system?
   According to EPA guidelines, home treatment units are rarely necessary for health protection. They're mostly used for aesthetic improvements. If you choose to install one, proper maintenance is crucial to prevent potential water quality issues.
5. Why does my coffee appear oily?
   Clean your coffee maker with vinegar and water according to manufacturer instructions.
6. What causes odors in hot water?
   The most common source is the water heater itself. If your cold water smells fine, check your water heater temperature settings and maintenance schedule. Contact us if odors persist or appear in both hot and cold water.
7. Why is my water sometimes discolored?
   Discoloration typically comes from natural organic matter, minerals, or mineral buildup in pipes. We regularly flush our system to remove buildup. If you experience discoloration, run faucets until clear and report the incident so we can investigate.
8. Is bottled water better than tap water?
   Both must meet the same quality standards, but municipal providers conduct more frequent testing and reporting than bottled water companies. While some prefer bottled water's taste or have specific health concerns, tap water is approximately 1,000 times more economical.
9. Why do workers open fire hydrants?
   Regular system flushing removes mineral buildup and ensures proper water circulation. Hydrants may also be opened for fire-flow capacity testing.
10. Why is water disinfection necessary?
    Disinfection prevents waterborne diseases like cholera, typhoid, and dysentery that were common before modern treatment. This process has significantly improved drinking water safety.
11. Why does my water taste or smell like chlorine?
    We disinfect water to ensure it's free of harmful bacteria. To reduce chlorine taste or odor, try refrigerating water before drinking.
12. Why is there sediment in my water?
    Sediment can occur naturally in groundwater or following water line repairs. Our regular flushing program helps minimize this by increasing water flow in pipes and removing accumulated sediment.
13. Why does water taste different throughout the year?
    Seasonal changes in water sources affect taste. Surface water from rivers and lakes typically tastes different than groundwater from underground aquifers.