Brigantine Water Department

WATER CONSERVATION TIPS

Did you know a leaky toilet can waste up to 200 gallons daily? To check for toilet leaks, add a few drops of food coloring to your tank water. If colored water appears in the bowl, you've identified a leak.

A slow drip can waste approximately 350 gallons monthly, increasing your utility bills, especially if it's hot water. Here are simple conservation steps:

• Turn off faucets when not actively using them
• Fill the sink with water for shaving instead of running water continuously
• Use a cup of water for rinsing while brushing teeth
• Keep a pitcher of cold water in the refrigerator rather than running the tap until cool
• Use a basin of water for rinsing vegetables instead of running water

City of Brigantine Water Department
3605 Bayshore Method
Brigantine, NJ 08203
(609) 266-7800

Frequently Asked Questions

Does our municipal water contain fluoride?
Fluoride naturally occurs in water resources from fluorine, the 13th most abundant element in the Earth's crust. Research confirms fluoride helps prevent and even reverse early tooth decay. The EPA has adjusted the recommended fluoride level from 0.7-1.2 milligrams per liter to a standard 0.7 milligrams per liter. Following approval by the Massachusetts DEP, our district implemented this new level at all injection points.

Why am I getting stains in my dishwasher?
These stains typically result from iron and manganese minerals in your water. When chlorinated dishwashing products contact these minerals, a reaction occurs that disperses residue on dishwasher surfaces. This issue becomes more noticeable during summer months when water demand increases, causing sediment in pipes to circulate through the system. Similar staining can affect laundry and washing machines when using chlorine-based detergents or bleach.

How can I remove these mineral stains?
The simplest solution is to avoid chlorine-based cleaning products. Check ingredient lists and consider chlorine-free alternatives like Seventh Generation and Bi-O-Kleen, available at most grocery stores. For existing stains, products like Red-B-Gone (available at Ti-Sales in Sudbury) are effective. Some residents report success using Tang orange drink mix or Glisten dishwasher cleaner from local grocery stores.

Why does the water department flush the mains each spring and fall?
Our region has hard water with high mineral content. These heavy minerals settle in water mains and require regular flushing to prevent pipe damage. Flushing serves multiple maintenance purposes: testing pipe quality, removing sediment buildup, exercising fire hydrants, and bringing fresh water into dead-end sections. While sediment isn't harmful to most people, those with immune deficiencies should consult their healthcare provider about mineral content in their water.

What causes green staining around sink drains?
This typically indicates low pH water interacting with copper plumbing. The staining often appears in homes with copper fixtures, particularly with lower-quality copper components.

What is the white crust forming on my faucets?
White crusty deposits are usually calcium buildup, which commonly forms when hot water temperatures exceed 140 degrees. Adjusting your water heater thermostat to around 130 degrees should help prevent this issue.