Summerville Water Company

Water Sources and Treatment
Summerville obtains water from Raccoon Creek, which is treated at the Summerville Water Treatment facility. Additionally, water from Lowe Spring flows directly to the Lowe Spring Plant where it's filtered with chlorine and fluoride addition before entering the distribution system. The spring consistently delivers high-quality water.

Our Watershed
The Northwest Atlanta Water Supply Watershed Assessment identifies potential contamination sources in our approximately 25 square mile watershed. The area primarily consists of forest and pasture with wildlife, livestock, and some residential areas with septic systems. The DNR maintains a fish hatchery on a spring-fed tributary upstream from our treatment facility. Potential pollution sources for Raccoon Creek include 8 bridges, 1 dairy operation, 1 fuel facility, 1 NPDES permit holder and 1 RCRA site.

Lead Awareness
Elevated lead levels can cause serious health issues, particularly for pregnant women and young children. Lead in tap water primarily comes from plumbing materials. While we provide quality water, we cannot control materials used in home plumbing. To minimize exposure, flush your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for cooking or drinking if it has been unused for several hours.

Vulnerable Populations
Immunocompromised individuals, cancer patients undergoing treatment, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, elderly residents, and infants may be more susceptible to contaminants. These individuals should consult their healthcare providers about water consumption. Guidelines for reducing infection risk are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline: 1-800-426-4791.

Water Quality Testing
Our laboratory technicians conduct tests hourly to ensure optimal water quality. We test untreated creek and spring water to optimize treatment processes, and monitor water through five different production phases continuously, 365 days per year. Our distribution system includes 45 sample sites tested twice monthly to verify absence of bacteria, meeting federal and state standards.

Water Conservation Tips
• A leaking faucet can waste 20 gallons daily • Collect rainwater in barrels for plant watering • Report broken pipes, open hydrants, and excessive waste • Install efficient, water-saving showerheads

1. Where does Summerville water come from?
   Summerville supplies surface water to Summerville, Georgia.
2. Does Summerville test its tap water?
   Yes. Like every public water system, Summerville must test its water under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act and publish an annual water quality report (Consumer Confidence Report). Ask the utility for the latest report or look for it on its website.
3. How do I contact Summerville?
   Call 706-859-0907 or visit 120 Georgia Avenue, Summerville, GA 30747, or use the contact options on the utility’s website.
4. Does Summerville water contain lead?
   Water usually leaves the treatment plant without lead. Lead can enter tap water from older service lines, solder and brass fixtures inside homes, especially when water sits in the pipes. Run the tap before drinking if water has been sitting, and ask the utility about lead testing and service line records.
5. Is Summerville water hard?
   Hardness depends on the source and changes over time. The annual water quality report lists hardness, or you can test it at home. If it is above about 7 grains per gallon, a water softener sized to your measured hardness will stop scale and spotting.