For questions about billing and turning on/off water service contact the Finance Department at 503-537-1205 or by clicking Utility Billing link at the bottom of this page
What should I do if my water is an unusual color?
Rusty, yellow or orange colored water is caused by iron and manganese sediment that can accumulate in water lines. This sediment can get stirred when water mains are flushed as a part of regular maintenance, fire hydrants are used or when water mains fail. Discolored water is safe to drink, but it is not aesthetically pleasing and can stain clothes. To remedy this flush the household plumbing by opening three cold water faucets at the same time for 7 minutes to push through any discolored water from the household plumbing. This is referred to as a “3 X 7 system flush”. Discolored water is hard to remove from a hot water tank so use cold water faucets so do not open any hot water faucets until the cold water has cleared up. If the problem persists, alert our customer service office at (503) 537–1205.
Why does my water smell/taste strange?
The quality of our water is constantly monitored and tested. However, water may have an undesirable taste or smell if it has been stagnant in any plumbing too long. Perform a “3 X 7 flush” to alleviate the taste and odor issues. Should the undesirable properties persist, decide if a particular faucet is at fault. Sometimes water softeners, water heaters, or in-line filters, can be the cause of strange tastes or smells.
What should I do if I have sand in my water?
Sand-like particles could be calcium (lime) deposits, water softener resin, or sand from a geologic formation. Soak a small sample of the particles in vinegar. If the particles dissolve when vinegar is added, they are calcium deposits. "Sand" or water softener resin will not dissolve in vinegar. Water softener resin appears as symmetrical and shiny particles that feel greasy to the touch. If the particles are determined to be water softener resin, then your water softener needs attention. Flush each cold water faucet to remove any particles from your household plumbing and have your water heater checked for calcium deposits.
Is it normal to have white flakes in ice cubes or hot water?
White flakes are caused by calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate precipitates. When hard water is frozen or boiled, the carbonates in the water appear as white flakes or attach to containers. This calcium is similar to that in dairy products and is harmless. The City of Newberg’s water is considered only moderately hard at 56 milligrams per liter (ppm).
Why does my water look milky?
Air bubbles entrained in water can cause it to look foamy or milky, but it will clear from the bottom up. Faucets with aerators introduce air into the water to prevent splashing. Sometimes the aerator can become blocked and must be cleaned. You can remove the aerator to reduce or eliminate the bubbles, although it would be better to clean the aerator periodically and continue its use. If the problem persists, alert our Customer Service office to see if air needs to be flushed out of the water mains.
What is the water pressure at my location?
Oregon Health Division Rules require that water suppliers maintain a minimum of 20 psi at each service. The water pressure within the City of Newberg’s system varies depending upon your location. Many water services within the City have a pressure regulating valve to control pressure on the customer side of the meter. The normal operating pressure within a residence or business should be between 70-80 psi.
Additional information can be found in the Newberg Water Quality Report including:
• The source of your water,
• General water characteristics,
• Regular testing that is performed to keep your drinking water safe,
• Water conservation tips
• The City’s backflow protection program.
The report can be viewed online - see the link below
Questions? Please let our staff assist you at (503) 537–1239 or (503) 537–1289.
