North Ridgeville City PWS

NORTH RIDGEVILLE, Ohio - Residents may notice a slight odor or unusual taste in their tap water, but officials assure there's no cause for alarm. According to Utilities Superintendent Rick Whitlock, "This is a seasonal occurrence and not a health concern. It happens annually with varying intensity. We purchase most water from Avon Lake, and this year's extreme heat has increased algae blooms. Avon Lake experienced an algae bloom last week. The intense sunlight drives fish to cooler depths where they consume less algae, which then enters the water treatment facility."

Whitlock confirms the water remains safe for consumption. The city has published water quality information on their official website. Residents can take several steps to improve the situation:

• Turn off outdoor faucets when not in use
• Disconnect garden hoses after use
• Prevent water backflow from connected hoses

"When a hose remains connected with the faucet on, sunlight heats the water, promoting algae growth," Whitlock explained. "The heated water expands and pushes back into your home plumbing. This water can then siphon into the house when an indoor faucet is turned on, causing unpleasant tastes and odors."

The Utilities Department has been flushing fire hydrants in areas reporting water quality issues. "We've received calls from homeowners in Meadow Ponds and Avalon developments, plus some from across town," noted Whitlock. "The issues have been intermittent. After flushing a few hydrants, conditions typically improve. The situation is gradually resolving." Residents will receive additional water quality information in their quarterly utility bill newsletter.

Common Water Utility Questions

Why is my water bill unusually high?

This frequently asked question has several possible explanations. Ask yourself:

1. Did you have additional people staying at your property during this billing period?
2. Are any faucets or fixtures dripping?
3. Do you need to jiggle toilet handles to stop running water?

These situations directly increase water consumption, resulting in higher bills.

Why was my water service disconnected?

Several possibilities exist:

1. Your account may have been transferred to collections for unpaid balances (contact ARB at 610-455-4115)
2. You may have missed a scheduled meter replacement appointment
3. During cold weather, pipes may have frozen (requiring a plumber)
4. An unpaid meter reconnection fee could trigger disconnection

Why is my water discolored with low pressure?

Contact the Water Authority Administration Office immediately. Staff will check if there's system maintenance (back flushing) or a water main break in your area. Back flushing issues typically resolve within 30-60 minutes. For main breaks, residents receive specific usage instructions via door notices. If neither situation applies, the Distribution Department will inspect your property and explain the findings.

Why didn't I receive my water bill?

The property owner is the legally designated recipient of water bills. If you've recently changed your mailing address, notify the Water Authority promptly. For returned bills, staff can verify postal issues. New property owners must provide settlement documents showing ownership transfer. If these situations don't apply, you can request a balance statement by submitting a Right to Know form.