Boil Water Notice FAQ's

Boil Water Notice and FAQs

What is a boil water notice? 

A boil water notice is a public statement issued by your water system advising customers to boil their tap water before drinking or other consumption. Boil water notices are issued as a precaution in response to an event that can potentially introduce contaminants into the distribution system (such as main breaks, loss of system pressure, or sample results from routine testing). The risk of waterborne diseases is higher for infants, the elderly, and people with autoimmune deficiency disorders. In the remote possibility of contamination, Texas Water Company issues boil water notices to safeguard the community. 

How can I make sure my water is safe? 

Tap water should be brought to a rolling boil for at least two minutes before it is used for drinking or cooking. Water should be boiled for brushing teeth, making ice, washing foods, and preparing drinking water for humans or pets. Wait for the water to cool before consumption. Boiling will remove any bacteria that may cause illness. Dispose of any ice that was made at the time of the boil water notice. 

Is the water safe for bathing and washing hands? 

Tap water can be used for bathing, showering, and hand washing; be careful not to swallow the water. Use caution when bathing infants and young children to ensure that no untreated tap water is consumed. 

How long will the boil water notice last? 

Texas Water Company will notify customers as soon as the notice is lifted. The duration of the boil water notice will depend on the circumstances that caused the boil water notice and the corrections that can be made. Laboratory results must confirm it is safe to return to normal use before a boil water notice is rescinded. Typically, boil water notices will last for 24 to 48 hours but can last longer depending on the condition of the distribution system. 

 

Boil Water Notice Rescind

What should I do once the notice is lifted? 

Once TWC rescinds the boil water notice, all household pipes should be flushed before use for drinking or cooking. To flush your pipes, let the water run to ensure fresh water is flowing. Run all cold faucets for one minute, run water softeners through a regeneration cycle, replace water filters, and make and discard three batches of ice for automatic ice makers. 

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions from the CDC

WHEN I TURN ON THE FAUCET, THE WATER SPUTTERS. WHY?

You have air in your lines. Turn on your tap slowly and run the water until the sputtering stops.

THE WATER IS DISCOLORED. WHAT SHOULD I DO?

  • Flush water pipes by running the water until it is clear.
  • Do not wash clothes if the water is discolored. Wait until the water runs clear at the tap. Wash a load of dark clothes first.

WHY DOES MY WATER HAVE A STRONG SMELL?

The smell is probably chlorine. Often, water systems will increase chlorine levels to disinfect the pipes.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY WATER PRESSURE IS LOW?

Check the faucet screens for trapped particles. Remove the screens and clean out any particles. Put the screens back on the faucet.

I HAVE A WATER TREATMENT UNIT FOR THE HOUSE. DOES IT NEED SPECIAL CARE?

Yes. Change the filter cartridges. Some units need disinfecting. Follow the directions in the unit’s Owner’s Manual.