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1. What part of the water distribution system is the customer responsible for maintaining and repairing?

The Water Department maintains and repairs all water mains located in the street rights of way and water easements. The customer is responsible for the individual service that connects to the water main. This includes the curb stop (water shutoff) located on the property, the service pipe running from the main to the house and the water meter valve located in the house. The water meter is maintained by the utility.

You may also view a drawing of your water service.

2. What is the white film on my glasses, pans, and ice cube trays?

The white film is the calcium and magnesium in our water (hardness). These are naturally occurring minerals and do not pose a health risk. To remove the residue, try wiping or soaking the object with vinegar. Commercial products can also be used to remove the film that has built up on glassware.

3. What is "hard" water?

Hardness is drinking water is mainly the result of the presence of two minerals; calcium and magnesium. If either of these minerals are present in your water in large amounts, the water is said to be "hard" because making a lather or suds for washing is difficult (hard) to do. Water containing little calcium or magnesium is referred to as "soft" water. Our water is approx. 25 grains per gallon.

4. What is the average residential bill during winter months?

The average residential water bill for winter (November - February) is about $24.

5. What can I do to prevent a high water bill?

There are several potential sources of a high water usage, including some that you as a homeowner can test for:

• Check for a leaky toilet by placing a few drops of food coloring in the tank of every toilet. If coloring appears in the bowl, the toilet has a small leak that results in many lost gallons.
• Check to make sure no outdoor faucets are unintentionally running.

For more ideas, please call the Water Department at (712) 722-0761.

6. Is water treated with chlorine safe to drink?

Many studies have shown that the presence of chlorine in treated water is not a factor in whether the water is safe or not to drink, although some people object to the taste and smell. The addition of chlorine during the treatment process is necessary to protect against potential bacterial contamination. Chlorine may be removed from the water by simply putting an uncovered container of tap water in the fridge and letting it sit for a couple of hours.

7. Is fluoride added to Sioux Center’s drinking water?

Yes, fluoride is added to Sioux Center's drinking water during the treatment process. It is closely monitored maintain a level of 1.1 ppm (parts per million).

8. What causes white water?

The presence of air bubbles may cause your water to appear white or cloudy. You can identify the problem as air by filling a glass with water. If the cloudiness rises from the bottom to the top of the glass, it is most likely air.