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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: My water is looking cloudy or milky. What is it?
A: Cloudy or milky water is the result of air in the water distribution system. The cloudiness is due to the millions of tiny airbubbles that are bursting in a few minutes. As the bubbles surface to the top, the water becomes clear. If the bubbles are aesthetically displeasing, it is easy to clear your line of air.  Turn your front hose bib on until the water runs clear. Then, go inside and run each cold faucet until the water runs clear. This should solve the problem of air in the line.

Q: Why does there seem to be so many water line breaks in my area?
A: Most water line breaks are due to older pipes, construction near pipes and defective materials.

Q: What is the purpose of flushing fire hydrants? It seems like such a waste of water.
A: Fire hydrants are often flushed to assure water quality. High velocity water helps to clean the interior of water pipes and ensures the operability of the fire protection system.

When Water Operations repair crews make a repair on a broken water line, they turn valves to isolate the break.  We make every attempt to put as few customers out of water as possible.  Occasionally, a complete shutdown in an isolated area is not possible. Rather than extending the valve shutdown area, crews may choose to open up fire hydrants in the isolated area. This reduces the pressure in the affected pipe and crews can complete the repair.

Q: Why is there warm water coming out of my cold water faucet?
A: When the summer temperature rises, the heated ground warms the pipes that carry water to your home.  This phenomenon is a fact of life here in the desert.  The less water that circulates through the system, the warmer the water is likely to be. If your neighborhood has a high vacancy rate in the summer, the likelihood that your cold water will be very warm is higher than in areas with low summer vacancy rates.

Q: Is it possible for my pipes to freeze in Scottsdale?
A: Yes, it is possible to experience frozen pipes in the winter. Pipe freezing is particularly vexing in warm climates where pipes are often run through underinsulated attics or crawl spaces. There are many things you can do to protect your plumbing during a cold snap.

  • Keep garage doors closed if there are water lines in the garage.
  • If weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet serviced by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe-even a trickle- will help prevent pipes from freezing because the temperature of the running water is above freezing.
  • Keep your thermostat set to the same temperature during the day and night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nightime temperatures, you may prevent a costly repair job due to frozen or burst pipes.
  • Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes like a "pipe sleeve" or installing UL-listed "heat tape", "heat cable", or similar materials on exposed water pipes. (Content compiled from the American Red Cross)

 

 

 


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