The following provides answers to some of the questions frequently asked by customers. If you have a water quality question that is not discussed below, or if you would like additional information, please call (916) 972-7171 or send an email to feedback@sswd.org.

Does Sacramento Suburban Water District (SSWD) use chlorine or chloramines to protect/disinfect the public water supply?

SSWD adds sodium hypochlorite (chlorine) to help protect and, if necessary, disinfect the water supply from the sources to where it is delivered to each customer. When added in accordance with State and Federal requirements, chlorine is a highly effective disinfectant used by public water systems.

How can I reduce the chlorine taste and/or odor in my water?

At times, your water may have a noticeable chlorine taste and odor. By doing one or more of the following, customers can reduce the chlorine taste or odor in the water:

• Allow the chlorine to dissipate by pouring the water into a glass or pitcher and exposing it to air for a few minutes.
• Store water in the refrigerator. Warm water has more “taste” than cold water. In addition, placing the water in a closed container helps prevent it from absorbing odors that may be present in the refrigerator.
• Adding ice or a few drops of lemon juice can also help reduce the chlorine taste.
• Use the water dispenser tap in the refrigerator. Most new refrigerators with water connections also have carbon filters that remove chlorine.
• Purchase a water pitcher filter.  They are available in most grocery and home product stores.

How can I remove chlorine from my shower water?

Customers whom report that their hair or skin is sensitive to the low levels of chlorine present in drinking water should consider installing a carbon filter between the supply line and showerhead. These types of filters are commercially available online, or at most home improvement stores for about $50.00. 

Why does my water leave a whitish color residue or scale behind after it dries?

SSWD’s primary source of supply is groundwater. When available, we supplement the groundwater supply with surface water. In general, groundwater is “harder” than surface water. That means it contains more minerals (including calcium and magnesium) than surface water. Calcium and magnesium are the main components of the residue left behind when the water evaporates. Please refer to our Hard Water page for additional information.

Why does my water appear cloudy at times?

Water described as cloudy, milky, or white most often results from “entrained air” in the water. Several SSWD wells are known to produce entrained air. The appearance of entrained air may come and go depending on which wells are actively providing water to your area. Entrained air may also be present at only one faucet in a home due to a clogged aerator or partially closed valve at your home. Entrained air is harmless and has no effect on the taste, odor, safety, or quality of the water. Entrained air escapes from the water in the form of tiny bubbles when it is no longer under pressure (comes out of your tap). After filling a glass with water, you will notice that the bubbles typically dissipate in less than one minute. Customers have reported that keeping a water pitcher on the counter or refrigerator allows the bubbles to dissipate between the time of filling the pitcher and drinking the water.

Does SSWD add fluoride to my water?

Since February 2007, SSWD has been adding fluoride to the water supply in the South Service Area (SSA). SSWD does not add fluoride to the North Service Area water supply. A map of SSWD’s service areas is available here. You can find additional information about fluoridation in the SSA here.

Why does my water have an unusual taste and/or odor?

Quite frequently, customers mistake odors coming from their drain with that of their tap water. An easy way to check the water is by filling a glass of cold water then walking away from the sink before cupping your hand over the top of the glass and smelling the water. If there is no odor present, you were probably smelling drain odors.

If drain odors are present, consider the following approach to address the concern:

1. Pour approximately 1 ounce of bleach down the drain.
2. Do not use the sink for about 15 minutes.
3. Fill the sink with warm water then release it to clear the drain.

Stagnant water in the pipes may also cause unusual taste or odor. Stagnant water is more likely to occur when water from a specific tap (or building) is infrequently used. Opening all the hose bibs outside the house and the cold water in the bathtub and flushing for 10 – 15 minutes often resolves the problem.

Where can I find additional water quality information?

Every year SSWD publishes and distributes a Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) as required by the State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water and the U.S. EPA. Copies of the CCR, as well as a Reader’s Guide to assist customers in understanding the CCR, are available on our Consumer Confidence Reports page.

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