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1. Do I need to use a water-treatment system or drink bottled water?

In general, not unless you want to change your tap water's taste or remove the minerals that cause it to be hard. While many people prefer the taste of bottled water, tap water is subject to even more-stringent quality standards than bottled water and is tested more frequently.

Some customers may be sensitive to the taste or odor of their tap water caused either by naturally occurring minerals or by residual chlorine added to ensure disinfection. We recommend first trying the simple practice of placing the water in a pitcher and letting cool in the refrigerator. Also, most inexpensive carbon filters will remove residual chlorine.

Pregnant women and people with medical conditions affecting their immune system should consult a physician to determine whether a supplemental treatment system is appropriate.

2. How do I know if my tap water is safe to drink?

The water distributed by Monte Vista Water District that our customers receive at their taps meets or exceeds all state and federal drinking water standards set to protect public health.

The Federal Safe Drinking Act of 1974 and its 1986 amendments are intended to ensure the quality of our nation's water supplies. In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the State Water Resources Control Board set forth regulations that limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. Department of Public Health regulations also establish limits for contaminants in bottled water that provide the same protection for public health.

3. I want to purchase a water softener. What brand would you recommend?

The District is not able to recommend a specific brand of water softener. However, the District urges customers to install only softeners that do not discharge salt into the sewer system, as this will negatively impact the quality of recycled water.

4. What's the hardness of Monte Vista Water District water? (for those thinking of purchasing a water softener)

The hardness in the District's water is caused by the presence of calcium carbonate, a naturally occurring mineral necessary for healthy bone growth.

Please refer to the District's most recent Annual Water Quality Report. The level of hardness in our water supply is listed in the Report in parts per million (ppm). To convert to grains per gallon, divide by 17.1.

5. Why does my water sometimes look cloudy?

Occasionally the District receives customer inquiries regarding the appearance of cloudy or milky tap water. This condition is usually due to the presence of dissolved oxygen in the water supply. As the water passes through household water faucet restrictors and/or aerators, the dissolved oxygen collects to form small but visible bubbles.

This appearance will typically clear within 30 seconds, as the bubbles rise and dissipate into the atmosphere. The cloudy or milky condition is not indicative of a water quality or public health concern.