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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to store water?

You can use glass or plastic bottles for storing water.  Use containers that were designed for storing consumable liquids.  Do not use bleach or other chemical bottles to store drinking water.  Containers should be washed with warm, soapy water and thoroughly rinsed. Containers can be filled with regular tap water.  You can disinfect your stored water with a small amount of household bleach. One teaspoon of bleach disinfects five gallons of water. This will kill bacteria and viruses and prevent the growth of microorganisms during storage. Containers should be emptied and refilled yearly.

Why does my tap water have a bad taste/smell/or appearance?

Even though your tap water may meet our state and federal water quality standards, it can, at times, have a strange taste, smell or appear discolored.   Often the problem may be caused by plumbing in your own home, especially in older developments.  Other common aesthetic problems may be a result of low levels of sulfur found at the water source or by algae growth in the reservoirs.  While these can change the smell or flavor of the water, they do not usually pose a health risk.  If you are concerned about a change in the taste, smell or appearance of your drinking water, please contact us.

What tests do I need to do on my private well to have it approved?

The testing requirements are found in our regulations.  Contact us if you would like a list of certified water testing labs in the county. 

Why is my water causing spots on my dishes?

Our water sometimes comes from the ground. Groundwater can contain high amounts of chemicals making our water hard. During the certain months, often in summer, wells water is used which may change the type of water you use. Water hardness is not a health issue for Salt Lake Valley drinking water systems.

How do I find out about specific contaminants that might be in my drinking water (such as lead, chromium, Cryptosporidium, etc.)? 

All drinking water, even bottled water, may reasonably be expected to contain small amounts of various contaminants. These contaminates are not considered a significant health threat as long as they occur below federal and state standards.  To learn what contaminants the EPA has set standards for and at what levels they are considered a health risk; see the EPA fact sheet on drinking water contaminants. If you would like to find out what contaminants have been found in your tap water and at what levels, you can request a copy of the Consumer Confidence Report from your local water provider. This report is mailed to customers yearly and is often posted on your water provider’s website.  If you have further questions about contaminates in your water, feel free to contact us.

Is bottled water safer than my tap water? 

You may be surprised to learn that bottled water may be less safe than your tap water. The EPA and Utah Division of Drinking Water set standards that all public drinking water providers throughout Salt Lake County must meet. Bottled water providers are not required to meet these same water quality standards. Some bottled water is treated more than tap water, but other bottled water is not treated at all. If you choose to purchase bottled water, read the labels to understand what you are buying.