City of Clinton

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1. Where is my water meter located?
   You should identify and maintain clear access to your meter for quick shut-off during leaks, natural disasters, or water emergencies. Water meters are typically found in basements, closets, or meter pits inside or outside your property. Keep the area around your meter clear for easier access during emergencies. For assistance locating your meter, contact the Water Department at (508) 429-0603. Identify your meter now to be better prepared.
2. Can water meters over-register usage?
   Fortunately for consumers, properly functioning disc or rotary piston water meters cannot over-register. Friction from deposit buildup on discs or pistons and chambers actually prevents over-registration. Water meters naturally slow down in service as they become worn, corroded, or encrusted, resulting in revenue loss for water utilities.
3. Why does my water appear discolored?
   Discoloration can occur when there's activity on water mains near your property (hydrant use, main breaks, firefighting, valve work, etc.). Usually, once the activity stops, the water should begin to clear. If you don't see improvement after the work is completed, contact the Water Department at (508) 429-0603.
4. Is discolored water safe to drink?
   Yes, the water has been treated, tested, and remains safe for consumption despite the color.
5. Can I do laundry when the water is discolored?
   We recommend avoiding washing white/light-colored clothing when water is discolored. Wait for clarity to return. Dark colors should be fine to wash.
6. Why do my appliances develop brown rings?
   Clinton has naturally high levels of iron and manganese in its groundwater. While the Water Department treats water to remove these minerals, both can be dislodged from water mains under certain conditions. Products like "Iron Out" or "Red B Gone" are available at hardware stores or from the Water Department to remove these stains.
7. Why does my tap water look cloudy?
   Air bubbles cause cloudiness in water, also called white water. This harmless condition often occurs during cold weather because air solubility increases with water pressure and decreases with temperature. Cold water holds more air than warm water. As water travels from the cold distribution system to your warmer home, dissolved air becomes less soluble and forms bubbles. Additionally, pressurized distribution water holds more air than unpressurized water. When water flows from your tap, the pressure releases and air escapes as bubbles (similar to carbonated beverages). Simply let the water sit in an open container until bubbles naturally disappear.
8. What should I do if I have no water pressure?
   Contact the Water Department immediately at (508) 429-0603, as this could indicate a leak in your service line or a main break in your area.
9. Who's responsible for repairing a leaking service line?
   Property owners are responsible for repairing their water service lines from the street to the meter and after the meter.
10. What would it cost to fill my pool?
    There's no flat rate—water is billed based on consumption. Visit the water department website for our tiered rate structure or call (508) 429-0603 for more information.