New York American Water - Lynbrook

Our water supply comes from wells distributed throughout the service area. These wells vary in depth from approximately 40 feet to 1,900 feet, with an average depth of 500 feet. In our portion of southwestern Nassau Region, the soil naturally contains high iron and mineral content. As water flows through these minerals, they dissolve into the supply - while not health hazards, they can cause water discoloration issues.

Bacterial contaminants are typically absent in wells at our average 500-foot depth, making the raw well water generally potable. However, treatment is necessary to protect water in the distribution system and reduce discolored water occurrences.

Our treatment process includes:
• Chlorination with 12.5% Sodium Hypochlorite for bacterial disinfection at all facilities
• Lime (Calcium Hydroxide) application at 12 of 20 locations to raise pH and reduce pipe corrosion
• Caustic Soda (25% Sodium Hydroxide) at 8 of 20 locations for pH adjustment and corrosion control
• Filtration systems at 11 treatment locations to remove natural iron
• Sodium Silicate addition to stabilize remaining iron and enhance corrosion control
• Air stripping technology at one location to remove volatile organic compounds

In 2017, we implemented significant system upgrades including:
• Completed performance testing of the permanent Iron Removal Filter Plant at Station #18 in South Hempstead
• Replaced approximately 3.6 miles (40,000 feet) of water main throughout the service territory
• Installed 114 new fire hydrants and replaced 767 service lines
• Upgraded approximately 5,000 water meters
• Began chemical system improvements at Plant 19 in Lakeview and Plant 2 in Lakeview
• Completed well screen repairs at Well 22-1 in Baldwin
• Finished construction of new Iron Removal Facilities for Plant 22 in Baldwin and Plant 20 in Valley Stream
• Implemented electrical equipment replacements at various pump stations
• Completed construction of a new portable skid-mounted Iron Removal Filter Plant at Station #23 in Malverne

1. What is the hardness and iron content of the water? The municipal supply contains approximately 17 grains per gallon of hardness, with minimal iron levels (less than 0.01 mg/L).
2. Why do I have low water pressure or no water? First check that valves on both sides of your meter are fully open. Water softeners frequently cause pressure reductions - try pushing or turning the bypass lever on your softener, then recheck pressure. Note that simply unplugging the unit won't affect water pressure. Clogged faucet aerators from softener zeolite may need cleaning. Also inspect your pressure-reducing valve (bell-shaped component on the main water line) as it may be failing.
3. Why do I have sewer odors inside my home? Dry traps in floor drains, sinks, tubs, or showers can allow sewer gases to enter. Pour water into any unused drains. Also verify your roof vent isn't obstructed.
4. Why is water splashing out of my toilet? Air pressure during municipal sewer line cleaning can travel up service lines causing toilet bubbling. This air should escape through your roof vent - bubbling may indicate a vent blockage.
5. What are the lawn watering regulations? From May 1 through September 30, lawn and landscape watering is restricted to hours before 11:00 am and after 6:00 pm.
6. Why do I have rusty or brownish water? Nearby hydrant flushing can temporarily disturb mineral sediment in water mains. High summer water demand may also stir up sediment in distribution lines.