Westerville City PWS Water Company

Westerville City PWS has been actively upgrading facilities to meet new federal water regulations and deliver high-quality tap water at reasonable costs. In March 2016, the utility implemented significant treatment improvements. A key enhancement was the addition of a secondary filtration system using granular activated carbon (GAC), similar to charcoal filters found in home water treatment devices.

This carbon filtration effectively reduces Total Trihalomethane (TTHM) formation and eliminates numerous potential contaminants. The upgrades also included improvements to chemical delivery systems, storage facilities, and feed mechanisms to enhance reliability, operational efficiency, and overall safety. The disinfection process was modernized by switching from hazardous chlorine gas to safer liquid bleach alternatives.

A cross-connection occurs when there's a physical link between a potential contamination source and the water system piping. If pressure from the contamination source exceeds water system pressure, contaminated water may backflow into the system. Pressure drops from pipe breaks, pump failures, or firefighting efforts can also cause backflow situations.

Properties with underground water systems and most commercial buildings must install backflow prevention devices. These devices protect the public water system from potentially contaminated water flowing backward. Ohio state regulations require annual testing of these devices by property owners, performed by certified professionals who must forward results to the Water Division. Additional information and forms are available at www.westerville.org.

1. Where does Westerville City PWS water come from?
   Westerville City PWS supplies surface water to Westerville, Ohio.
2. Does Westerville City PWS test its tap water?
   Yes. Like every public water system, Westerville City PWS 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 Westerville City PWS?
   Call 614-901-6740 or visit 312 W. Main Street, Westerville, OH 43081, or use the contact options on the utility’s website.
4. Does Westerville City PWS 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 Westerville City PWS 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.