Dearborn Heights

Water quality remains crucial to our community's health and well-being. Dearborn Heights and the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) are committed to meeting all state and federal water quality standards including the Lead and Copper Rule. With the Great Lakes serving as our primary water source and utilizing proven treatment technologies, the GLWA consistently delivers safe municipal water to our community.

Dearborn Heights manages the network of water mains that transport this water to your residential service line. This year's Water Quality Report highlights the outstanding performance of GLWA and Dearborn Heights water professionals in providing some of the nation's highest quality municipal water. We remain dedicated to protecting public health and maintaining transparent communication about our water supply.

This report was initiated following the 1996 Federal Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments. These changes require every community to produce an annual report for all water customers. The dual purpose is to inform Dearborn Heights residents about their water quality and to provide information about the municipal water system infrastructure.

The Dearborn Heights Water Department serves approximately 59,000 residents across 21,100 homes and 1,200 businesses, schools, churches, and apartment buildings. Our water comes from the Great Lakes Water Authority's Springwells and Southwest Water Treatment Plants. The source water originates from the Detroit River, which connects to Lake St. Clair and receives water from the Clinton River, Rouge River, Ecorse River, and Canadian waterways including the Thames River, Little River, Turkey Creek and Sydenham River.

In 2004, the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality collaborated with several agencies to assess source water contamination potential. The susceptibility rating uses a seven-tier scale from "very low" to "very high" based on geological sensitivity, water chemistry, and potential contamination sources. The Detroit River water intakes were determined to be highly susceptible to potential contaminants, but all Detroit water treatment facilities have consistently provided effective treatment to meet drinking water standards.

The GLWA has implemented source-water protection activities including chemical containment measures, spill response protocols, and a mercury reduction program. They participate in the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System and maintain an emergency response management plan. In 2015, GLWA received a state grant to develop a comprehensive source water protection program for Detroit River intakes.

Does American Water add fluoride to the water?

Yes, in many systems, though this is determined by local regulations. American Water and our subsidiaries only add fluoride when mandated by local law. The company maintains a neutral position on water fluoridation practices.

How can I locate my water meter and shutoff valve?

Customer service representatives can provide meter location information based on system records. Generally, shutoff valves are positioned in your basement where the main pipe enters your home. However, home configurations vary, so contacting customer service for your specific location is recommended.

What payment options are available for my monthly bill?

1. Pay by Mail: Find your state-specific mailing address on your state's webpage under Billing & Payment in the Customer Service menu.
2. Pay In Person: Location information is available on your state's website under Billing & Payment.
3. Pay by Phone: Call 1-855-748-6066 to pay using Visa or MasterCard (service fee applies). Have your account number ready.
4. Pay Online: Set up Automatic Payment for timely bill payments directly from your checking or savings account. Credit/debit card payments are also accepted online.

How are water rates determined?

Water service costs depend on several factors: system operation and maintenance expenses, energy costs for pumping water from source to homes and businesses, and employee salaries (technicians, meter-readers, administrative staff). These costs vary by location.