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1. What is wastewater and why do I pay for it?

Wastewater (sewer) is the used water that goes down the drains and into the wastewater collection system. Its source can be residential, commercial, or industrial. The sewer charge on your utility bill pays for the costs associated with functioning the wastewater collection system as well as transportation and treatment of the wastewater to be returned to the Trinity River.

2. Why do I sometimes see fire hydrants running when there is no fire?

Flushing, which is the practice of running water through the distribution system using fire hydrants, is done for several reasons. Often after a water main repair, hydrants are temporarily left open to relieve excessive water pressure. Sometimes hydrants are opened to help clean out the distribution system for discoloration or odor issues, or to remove air from the line.

3. My tap water sometimes has an earthy or musty taste and scent in the late summer. What causes this?

This is caused by an algae bloom at the water sources, Lake Chapman and Lake Lewisville. Most Texas lakes experience what is referred to as a “blue-green algae bloom” in late summers and, in rare occurrences, during exceptionally warm winters. The algae are removed during treatment, but the scent and taste issues still occur.

The treatment process aids with these issues, but no process has been developed anywhere to completely eliminate them. However, please note that these issues are not harmful to your health and that fire hydrant flushing does not relieve this problem. As algae levels normalize, so will the scent and taste of the water.