Santa Clarita Water Division

MICROBIOLOGICAL TESTING
Microbial contaminants, including bacteria and viruses, can occur naturally or result from urban runoff, sewage treatment facilities, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife. The municipal water system is regularly tested weekly for Total Coliform (TC) bacteria throughout distribution networks. These naturally occurring bacteria serve as indicators for potential pathogens in water systems.

The Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for TC is 5% of monthly tests showing positive results in larger systems and two positive samples monthly in smaller systems. When TC is detected during routine monitoring, additional testing for Escherichia coli (E. coli) is conducted to check for possible fecal contamination. No E. coli was found in any Santa Clarita Valley (SCV) water system last year, and all systems complied with the Total Coliform Rule.

METALS AND MINERALS
Groundwater testing for metals occurs once every three years, while Castaic Lake water undergoes monthly testing. Small amounts of naturally occurring arsenic have been detected in both Castaic Lake and certain groundwater wells. This metalloid appears through natural erosion of rocks as water flows over or through them.

While your water meets federal and state arsenic standards, it may contain low levels of this element. The arsenic standard balances current understanding of health risks against removal costs. The EPA continues researching effects of low-level arsenic exposure, as it's known to cause cancer at high concentrations and is linked to skin damage and circulatory issues.

Natural deposits found in both surface and groundwater include chloride, fluoride, nitrate, nitrite, calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium. Together, these make up Total Dissolved Solids (TDS). Calcium and magnesium contribute to water hardness, which can cause scaling from mineral precipitates. Fluoride is not added to your water—any detection comes naturally from groundwater sources.

LEAD AND COPPER
Every three years, local water retailers must test customer taps for lead and copper as required by the Lead and Copper Rule. These metals are also tested in source water supplies. Elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, particularly for pregnant women and young children. No lead was detected in any Santa Clarita Valley source waters by any local water retailer.

Lead in municipal water primarily comes from materials and components in service lines and home plumbing. While your water provider ensures high-quality water, they cannot control the variety of materials used in residential plumbing components.

Common Water Quality Questions

Why is my water cloudy or white?
Cloudiness typically indicates dissolved air in your water. Test this by filling a clear pitcher and watching if the cloudiness disappears. When main breaks occur and valves are operated, air can enter the distribution system causing temporary cloudiness. This air will naturally dissipate. If cloudiness persists, you may have a household plumbing issue. Contact the Water Treatment Plant at 1-978-858-0345 for assistance.

What causes stains on my fixtures?
Iron and manganese, commonly found in most water supplies, often cause staining in toilets and sinks. Bleach cleaning products can cause these minerals to precipitate out of solution and deposit on surfaces. As more water flows through, these deposits accumulate into visible stains. Regular cleaning without scratching surfaces is the best prevention method. For stubborn mineral scaling, try a non-bleach cleaner or lime-removal product. Pink staining usually indicates a biofilm that thrives on soap residue – wiping down shower and sink surfaces regularly helps prevent this issue.

Why do my pipes make banging noises?
Banging often occurs when water and air aren't properly mixed in your plumbing system. This may indicate you need professional plumbing assistance.

Is Santa Clarita's water hard?
Our water is considered soft, typically maintaining 1-2 grains of hardness in finished water. This means you'll need less soap for washing hair, clothes, and dishes. Check your dishwasher manual for proper detergent amounts – you may only need half the recommended amount, saving money and preventing glass etching from excess detergent.

Why does my water have an odor?
To identify odor sources, fill a clean glass and move away from the faucet. If the smell persists and resembles chlorine, you might be sensitive to the small amount of disinfectant (less than 1 part per million) added to keep water safe during distribution. A musty smell may indicate seasonal variations in naturally occurring organisms that, while unpleasant, are harmless.

If the water smells only at the tap but not in a glass away from it, the sink may be the source. Food particles in garbage disposals or dishwashers can create odors as they decompose. Clean disposals with a half cup of vinegar, baking soda, or bleach (avoid bleach with septic systems) plus ice cubes while running cold water. For dishwasher odors, run an empty rinse cycle or clean food traps regularly.