First check to see if you have a leak on your property. No leak, here is a list of items to consider:

• check irrigation timers
• was a swimming pool just filled?
• was a hose left running?
• did a toilet have a leak?
• did you just put in new landscaping or a lawn?

     For leaks on your property that are on your side of the water meter, you should contact a professional plumber. The water district does not give recommendations or referrals.

     No. We are unable to help you with repairs that occur on your side of the water meter.

     Not at this time. The district is currently in the process of initiating that convenience.

     No discounts or special rates are available. An average pool equates to approximately $100, in addition to normal usage.

     No, the district does not have any special rates for seniors or the disabled. Established rates to everyone in the water district's service area.

     Not at this time but you will soon be able to.

     We do not provide e-billing at this time. It should be availabe in the near future.

Who should I contact if I have questions about the quality of my water?

     If water running from your tap looks, smells or tastes unusual, your first call should be to the customer service staff at the water district. They will help you determine the cause of the change and may send a technician for on-site investigation if the cause appears to be in our water system.

Other sources of information about water quality include:

• California Department of Health Services
  (916) 323-6111

• US Environmental Protection Agency
  (EPA) (800) 426-4791

     Whether or not to use a home treatment system is a personal decision · · · and should be based on specific taste expectations or exceptional medical needs. Tap water provided by Tuolumne Utilities District meets stringent State and Federal requirements for health and safety. However, in-home treatment units can remove additional constituents, which may affect taste - primarily organic, and inorganic chemicals.

     Different treatment systems are designed to do different things. A little research will help you to make certain you're getting the right unit to suit your individual expectations. Also, be certain to consider the need for upkeep and maintenance. Improperly maintained, some treatment units have been known to actually cause health problems. In addition, take into account costs not only for purchase, but for treatment supplies, maintenance, and - often - additional water which may be necessary for flushing.

     Many things affect how water tastes. Water from varying geographic areas may have different mineral content, which affects taste. Chlorine, which kills bacteria and is critical to water safety, may leave a slight residual taste or odor. Sometimes, the pipes in your home plumbing can impact taste, particularly if water has been sitting in the lines for several hours. The best way to address any of these tastes is to place a pitcher of tapwater in the refrigerator, where exposure to cold and air will allow many of the taste-producing elements to dissipate.