Cerritos - City, Water Department

What Does the U.S. EPA Say About Municipal Water Quality? The sources of tap water (both municipal and bottled water) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water moves across land surfaces or through underground layers, it dissolves naturally-occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive materials.

The City of Cerritos regularly conducts testing as mandated by state and federal agencies to ensure that contaminants are not present at levels considered harmful by health authorities. Potential contaminants in source water include:

• Microbial contaminants, such as viruses and bacteria, which may originate from sewage treatment facilities, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants, including salts and metals, which can occur naturally or result from urban runoff, industrial discharges, oil and gas production, mining, or farming
• Pesticides and herbicides, which may come from various sources including agriculture, urban stormwater runoff, and residential uses
• Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile organic compounds, which are byproducts of industrial processes and petroleum production, and can also come from gas stations, urban stormwater runoff, and septic systems
• Radioactive contaminants, which may occur naturally or result from oil and gas production and mining activities

To ensure tap water safety, the U.S. EPA and California Department of Water Resources establish regulations limiting certain contaminants in public water systems.

Should I Take Additional Precautions? Certain populations may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than others. People with compromised immune systems—such as cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, individuals with HIV/AIDS, elderly persons, and infants—may face higher infection risks. These individuals should consult healthcare providers about their drinking water. Guidelines for reducing Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminant risks are available through the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

How Can I Participate in Water Decisions? Decisions regarding your water system are made during Cerritos City Council meetings, typically held at City Hall Council Chambers at 7 p.m. on the second and fourth Thursdays monthly. Council meetings are broadcast live on Cerritos TV3 with videos archived on the City's website. For specific questions about your tap water quality, contact Charles Emig, Water Superintendent, at (562) 916-1223.

How hard is my water and what's my water pressure?

The water hardness in Schererville typically measures around 7.0. Water pressure generally ranges between 45 and 55 PSI.

Why does my water smell and taste musty?

Lake Michigan algae goes through seasonal cycles with growth peaks in early spring, mid-summer, and late fall. This creates a harmless but unpleasant musty taste in the water. The abundance of algae has been linked to zebra mussel introduction into Lake Michigan. These European mollusks filter water as they feed, removing particles and increasing sunlight penetration, which promotes algae growth. During easterly winds, these algae concentrate near intake pipes of water treatment facilities. Rest assured the water remains safe to use, and the taste typically returns to normal after wind direction changes. Meanwhile, keeping water in an open pitcher in the refrigerator can improve its taste.

Why does my tap water look cloudy?

During winter months, cloudiness in water is typically caused by harmless air bubbles. As Lake Michigan water warms while traveling through underground distribution pipes into your home, it remains under pressure. This pressure forces air to stay dissolved in the water at concentrations above its normal capacity. When you open a faucet, the pressure releases and dissolved air begins to escape. Looking at a glass of cloudy water, you'll notice it starts clearing from the bottom up as tiny bubbles rise and dissipate. No residue remains at the bottom of the glass, confirming this is simply air.

What are the white particles sometimes found in my tap aerators?

Many homes across America are experiencing issues with residential water heater dip tubes made from inferior polymer plastic. These tubes are deteriorating within tanks, causing hot water shortages and distributing white plastic debris throughout household plumbing systems. When homeowners discover this debris in their water or clogging aerators, they often mistakenly believe it's entering from the municipal supply rather than originating within their homes. The Schererville Water Department recommends consulting a licensed plumber to address this issue.