Water

Q: How often should a water utility flush the hydrants?
A: Twice a year is the recommended, typically in the Spring and Fall. The Utility should only do so if the system has the manpower and plenty of water.
Q: What do I have to do to change my coliform bacteria sample point?
A: Simply notify Linda Robinson with the Maine Drinking Water Program and explain the need for the change in location. If possible, provide the Drinking Water Program with a map of the system showing the new sample point.
Q: How do most systems thaw hydrants and service lines?
A: We suggest using a steamer rather than a welder, as welders tend to create problems unless all electrical services are disconnected properly.
Q: My unaccounted for water is too high, what steps should the utility take?
A: The first place to start is by testing the water meters. Repair any malfunctioning meters. In addition, if the system has unmetered services, install meters.
Q: Do I need to keep my chlorine residual at 1.0 ppm or higher?
A: No. To optimize your use of chlorine and assure water quality, maintain a residual at the entry point of your distribution system to provide a trace residual at the farthest coliform sample point from your source.
Q: How are most of the surface water plants coping with the enhanced treatment rules?
A: Many have been exploring sites for wells to either blend ground water with their supply to dilute the amount of total organics or eliminate their surface water all together.
Q: Every winter we have to run several bleeders to keep services from freezing. How can I make sure the customers don’t shut them off or increase the flow?
A: You should install a bleeder made of a self tapping valve and 1/4" tubing. These can be bought at a hardware or appliance store. They are the type used for refrigerator ice makers. If the customer is running water because their part of the line might freeze but your side won’t, you can encourage them to install this type of bleeder. Any time you have the opportunity to repair one of these services, take a little extra time to lower the pipe from the main to the curb stop or, at least, put styrofoam insulation over and encourage the homeowner to do the same.
Q: How often should I have my tank(s) cleaned?
A: Steel tanks should be inspected and, if necessary, cleaned every three to four years. Concrete tanks every five to six years. Inspections can be done by divers or remote cameras without having to take the tank out of service. After the first few times, a history becomes apparent which will allow you to set a schedule based on the conditions discovered
Q: We had a bacteria hit last time we collected samples. What happens next?
A: The State will collect 4 re-check samples to see if there is a problem with your water or your sampling technique.
  • If they are negative you will be asked to collect 5 extra samples the next time around (State can waive these under certain circumstances) and then you will go back to your regular schedule.
  • If they are positive—you will need to shock your well and you will collect 5 extra samples the next month. You will probably be placed on monthly sampling for at least six months. You may want to contact us for assistance during this event.
Q: We received a Notice of Violation (this could be for missed sample or the sample may have exceeded the allowable limit). What do we do now?
A: You must:
  1. Complete the forms you received from the State.
  2. Provide copies of the completed notice to your customers-this includes staff, residents and/or clients/customers.
  3. Return a completed copy back to the State (specifically the Compliance Officer who sent the notice to you.) We can assist you with this if you have questions.
Q: When the re-check samples were collected, some came back negative but some were positive even if they were all collected from the same location, how does that happen?
A: No one can be sure but the standard theory is that the bacteria form in clumps. It is possible that while sampling, some bottles catch those clumps as they break off from the walls of the piping while others do not catch any. No one has ever proven this theory, but it is as probable as any other.
Q: Why is my system considered a Public Water System by the State—I don’t sell water?
A: The definition of a Public Water System (PWS) quite involved and has several conditions that determine the various classifications of systems. The simple definition is that if you serve or have the potential to serve 25 people for 60 days out of the year you fall under the definition of a Public Water supply. Again, if you have questions we can assist you with a review of your specific circumstances.