Throughout much of 2017, the Edenvale service area received treated surface water from the SCVWD. Under normal operations, deep-water wells provide 100% of this service area's supply. A temporary source change was necessary to complete a reservoir rehabilitation project, which concluded in late 2017.

Muni Water conducted a one-time resource assessment on Edenvale water wells in January 2003. While the source is potentially susceptible to chemical and petroleum processing activities, no associated contaminants have been detected.

Coyote Area Service Area
Deep-water boreholes provide 100% of this service area's supply. A 2004 assessment considered the groundwater potentially vulnerable to agricultural drainage, illegal dumping, storage tank leaks, and sewer collection systems, yet no related contaminants have been found. For information about contaminants tested or to request groundwater assessment reports, contact a Water Quality Engineer at 408-277-3671.

Water Quality
Coliforms ("Total Coliform") are environmental bacteria that indicate potentially harmful bacteria might be present. Compliance standards vary by distribution system size. In larger systems (Classic, Edenvale, Coyote Valley), 95% of monthly samples must be coliform-free. In smaller systems (North San José, Alviso), only one sample monthly may test positive.

Surface water disinfection protects public health by eliminating disease-causing organisms. In Classic, North San José, and Alviso, water is disinfected using chloramine. While it may cause a slight chlorine taste or odor, chloramine isn't harmful to the general public but must be removed for kidney dialysis machines and aquariums.

Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is added to treated water in Evergreen, North San José, and Alviso to help prevent dental cavities. In Evergreen, Muni Water began fluoridation following a community advisory vote in the early 1960s. As of 2016, SCVWD handles fluoridation at their treatment plants. The SFPUC System-Wide Fluoridation Project (affecting North San José and Alviso) became operational in November 2005. Some areas may periodically receive water with fluoride levels slightly below the recommended range. Edenvale and Coyote Valley service areas don't currently receive additional fluoride. Consult your healthcare provider regarding fluoride supplements.

Water Hardness
Hardness primarily consists of calcium and magnesium salts. While not a health risk, reducing hardness through water softeners can decrease soap usage, extend water heater life, and reduce pipe encrustation. However, softening may increase sodium consumption, require maintenance, and potentially affect plants and landscaping.

Who do I contact during a water emergency?

During Town Hall operating hours (Monday to Thursday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm and Friday 8:00 am to 1:00 pm), contact the Water Department at (978) 664-6060. For after-hours emergencies, contact the North Reading Fire Department at (978) 664-3112.

Who should I contact when buying or selling a home?

Contact the Water Billing office at (978) 664-6009 to schedule a final water meter reading for property transfers and assist with transferring the water account ownership.

How can I check for water leaks in my home?

Your home's water meter resembles a car odometer with a digital readout showing gallons used since installation. To activate the display, charge the solar panel with a flashlight for 5-10 seconds. After startup, it will show usage and then gallons per hour (GPH), revealing if water is currently being used.

Toilet leaks are the most common source of high water bills. Two tests should be performed:

1. Check the water level in the tank - it should be about 0.75 inches below the overflow pipe. If water flows into the overflow pipe due to misadjusted floats, this creates a silent leak.
2. Add food coloring to the tank - if color appears in the bowl without flushing, you have a leaking flapper valve.

Underground leaks, especially in irrigation systems, can waste substantial amounts of water unnoticed. Even slow leaks run continuously and can significantly increase your bill.

Who do I contact about water bill questions?

For billing inquiries, contact the Water Billing office at (978) 664-6009. Remember that bills are based on actual meter readings, and high bills typically result from high water volume passing through your meter, often due to outdoor sprinkler use or leaks.

Who's responsible for my water service line?

Property owners are responsible for maintaining and repairing the water service line from the shutoff valve near the property line to the building. The Water Department handles water mains in the street and the portion of the service line from the main to the property line shutoff valve.

Why does my water sometimes appear milky or discolored?

Cloudy or "milky" water contains tiny air bubbles that aren't harmful and will rise to the top of a glass after a few minutes. Air can enter pipes during water main break repairs. While the Water Department attempts to flush out air and discoloration after repairs, pockets of air may remain trapped in pipes, eventually appearing as milky water.