Frequently Asked Questions About Water

For questions about

• Billing Paying Municipal Service Bill
• How is water use Recorded 
• I think there is an error on my Bill
• Turning on/off water service - moving in/moving out

Contact Municipal Service Dept. at 503-537-1205 or click here for more information.

Water is an unusual color?
Rusty, yellow or orange colored water is caused by iron and manganese sediment in your pipes. Discolored water is safe to drink, but it is not pleasing and can stain clothes. Flush the household plumbing:  open 3 cold water faucets at the same time for 7 minutes.  Discolored water is hard to remove from a hot water tank  so do not open any hot water faucets until the cold water has cleared. If the problem persists, alert our office at (503) 537-1234.

A strange smell/taste?
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 or if it gets warm.  Flush your pipes for a few minutes and check the faucet screen for debris. check water softeners, water heaters, or in-line filters.  Chilling water often improves taste. Dishwashers, soap and pipes can affect taste of water too. 

What is the water pressure at my location?
Oregon Health Division Rules require that water suppliers maintain a minimum of 20 psi. The water pressure within the City of Newberg’s system varies depending upon your location. Much of the City has a pressure regulating valve to control pressure for customers. The normal operating pressure within a residence or business should be between 70-80 psi.

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.  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?
^{White flakes are caused by calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate. When moderate to hard water is frozen or boiled, the carbonates in the water appear as white flakes or attach to containers. This calcium is harmless. The City of Newberg’s water is considered only moderately hard at 56 milligrams per liter (ppm).}

Why does my water look foggy?
^{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 must be cleaned. You can remove the aerator to reduce or eliminate the bubbles, although it would be better to clean the aerator and continue its use. If the problem persists, alert our office to see if air needs to be flushed out of the water mains.}

^{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.