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1. What is done to ensure the water is safe to drink?

SPRWS complies with the standards for drinking water as prescribed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Safe Drinking Water Act and the Minnesota Department of Health. The Department of Health and the utility monitor the water at prescribed, mandatory intervals.

Since 1999, all water utilities have been required to prepare an annual water quality report that outlines water sources, substances detected in the water in the previous year and at what levels, along with helpful information. Contact Customer Service at (651)266-6350 to request a copy.

2. Is the fluoride and chlorine in my drinking water safe?

Yes. When added to water or naturally present in the correct amounts fluoride in drinking water has greatly improved the dental health of American consumers. Many tests have shown that the amount of chlorine found in treated water is safe to drink, although some people object to the taste.

Note: even in the correct amounts, fluoride or the disinfectant chlorine in drinking water makes the water unsuitable for use in kidney dialysis machines or aquariums.

3. Can I tell if my drinking water is safe just by looking at it, smelling it, or tasting it?

No. None of the harmful chemicals or harmful microbes that might be in drinking water can be seen, tasted, or smelled. The utility tests for a variety of substances, including microbes and chemicals, and treats the water accordingly to ensure that it meets drinking water standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency.

On the other hand, the water might have a fishy or earthy smell due to algae growth in water sources, yet be completely safe to drink. Some times a slight chlorine scent can be detected as result of chlorine being used as a disinfectant in the treatment process. Generally, chemicals that cause a taste in drinking water will not make you ill.

4. What causes occasional taste and odor changes in the water?

All water has its own unique taste and odor characteristics. SPRWS, like many other water suppliers, occasionally experiences taste and odor changes. Taste and odor issues from Saint Paul water stem from algae growing in the source water lakes. In the summer and early fall, algae in the supply lakes occasionally give water an earthy or fishy taste and odor. Temperature change and excessive rain also can alter taste. These changes do not affect the safety of the water.

5. What causes the rusty color in my water?

Flushing fire hydrants and water main repairs can disturb sediments in water mains resulting in red or brown colored water. If this is the case, turn on the cold water for a few minutes to flush any sediment out of your pipes. While red or discolored water is not a health concern, it can stain laundry.