West Carteret Water Corp

Currently, West Carteret Water Corp draws water from five 10-inch wells located in the Croatan National Forest plus one 6-inch well. These wells reach an average depth of 280 feet, accessing the Castle Hayne Aquifer. The wells are equipped with either 40-hp or 50-hp pumps capable of producing approximately 600 gallons per minute (GPM), except for Well No. 2 which produces about 375 GPM.

Raw water is pumped to the treatment facility at 4104 Highway 24 near Ocean. The water first passes through an aerator before being stored in two 50,000-gallon ground storage tanks adjacent to the plant. Since September 2008, the treatment process includes iron removal as needed, followed by softening using Cation Resin. This process reduces hardness levels to approximately 50-60 ppm (2.9-3.5 grains per gallon).

After softening, the water undergoes color (tannin) removal using Anion Resin vessels. The water then receives ortho-polyphosphate as needed for corrosion control in the distribution system. Chlorination follows in the treatment process, after which the water enters a detention tank before receiving hydrogen treatment.

The North Carolina Division of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Public Water Supply (PWS) Section, Source Water Assessment Program (SWAP) regularly conducts assessments of all drinking water sources across North Carolina. These assessments determine each water source's susceptibility to Potential Contaminant Sources (PCSs), with ratings of high, moderate, or lower based on contaminant ranking and natural vulnerability characteristics.

West Carteret Water Corp routinely monitors for over 150 contaminants according to Federal and State regulations. The presence of contaminants doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. Unless otherwise noted, test results are from January through December sampling periods, with some data being more than one year old as EPA or State requirements allow less frequent monitoring for certain contaminants.

Common Water Customer Questions

1. My water bill and usage is higher than normal. Could I have a leak?
   Leaky fixtures and pipes often cause unexpected bill increases. Check toilets by adding food coloring to the tank and watching if color appears in the bowl without flushing. Inspect faucets, showers, crawl spaces, and damp areas in your yard. Consider increased household occupancy, pool filling, or lawn watering as potential causes.
2. What are those small white granular particles in my strainers and appliances?
   These particles likely come from a deteriorating water heater dip tube. This non-metal component extends from the top to the bottom of your tank and can become brittle over time, breaking into small pieces that collect in strainers and appliances. Tank replacement is typically needed.
3. What causes low water pressure?
   Low pressure may result from water main breaks (temporary), household leaks, partially closed shut-off valves, or malfunctioning pressure reducers. Sometimes people confuse pressure with flow rate - good pressure but restricted flow can cause reduced water output when multiple outlets are used simultaneously.
4. What should I do if I have uncontrollable water flow or can't shut off my water?
   Call our 24-hour service line: 352-4501
5. What's the difference between a Boil Water Advisory and a Boil Water Notice?
   A Boil Water Advisory is issued by the water system when there's potential concern, while a Boil Water Notice comes from public health officials when contamination is more likely. Both require boiling water for at least 3 minutes (5 minutes at higher elevations) before consumption. You'll be notified when conditions return to normal.
6. What is a utility easement?
   Utility easements are designated strips of land where utilities have access rights for installation and maintenance of water, electric, sewer, and other services. While property owners own the land, utilities maintain legal access to these areas. Easements typically exist along streets, rear lot lines, and sometimes between properties.