Park Ridge Water Department

The Park Ridge Water Department is proud to present this year's Annual Water Quality Report. This document outlines the results of our water quality testing conducted in 2017. Our mission is to provide you with reliable, high-quality tap water every day.

In 2017, we analyzed over 2,500 samples to ensure the 700 million gallons of water we pump, treat, and distribute meets or exceeds all federal and state water quality standards. The Board of Public Works remains dedicated to delivering safe, dependable water to our 5,000 customers in Park Ridge and Woodcliff Lake – a commitment that dates back to the 1920s when our utility began operations.

We believe informed customers are our best partners in maintaining safe water. The Park Ridge Board of Public Works meets on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 8:00 PM at the Park Ridge Utility Department, 15 Sulak Lane. The public is always welcome to attend.

If you have questions about your water, please call us at (201) 391-2113. Additional information is available on the Borough's website at www.parkridgeboro.com. You can also contact the Environmental Protection Agency's safe drinking water hotline at (800) 426-4791 or visit www.epa.gov.

FAQ To better serve our community, we've compiled answers to our customers' most common questions. If you don't find what you're looking for, please contact us directly.

1. Why is my water usage so high? The reading may be incorrect due to difficult-to-read meter numbers. Alternatively, you might have an undetected leak from a toilet, faucet, or outdoor pipe. Even a small leak can accumulate significant usage over a month. Contact our office so we can help resolve the issue.
2. What should I do about low water pressure? First inspect your meter and surrounding area for potential leaks. Then call our office to report the pressure issue in your location.
3. Why is my water discolored? Recent repairs may have introduced air into the line, causing a milky appearance. If discoloration persists, please notify our office immediately.
4. What chemicals are added to our water? We only use NSF-approved chemicals for treating municipal drinking water. These include compounds for adjusting pH and hardness, and removing unwanted minerals. Our primary disinfectant is chlorine, applied according to health guidelines to ensure water safety throughout the distribution system. We also add fluoride following OEPA, CDC and ODH regulations.
5. My water tastes, looks or smells unusual. Is it safe? All public water systems must maintain minimum chlorine levels (0.2 mg/L at line endpoints) by state law. Systems using chloramine must maintain 0.5 mg/L. You may occasionally detect a faint chlorine odor, but our disinfectant levels are tested daily to ensure safety. Please report any unusual odors so we can investigate.
6. Why do particles come out when running hot water? This is typically calcium or lime buildup from your home plumbing or water heater. Regular flushing of your water heater can help. CAUTION: Most manufacturers recommend hiring a professional for this task. Reducing your water heater temperature to 110 degrees or less can slow mineral buildup. You might also find debris in sink aerators from pipe shavings or gasket fragments - regularly cleaning these screens can help.