If you have any concerns regarding the taste, color, or odor of your water, please reach out to us. Contact the Water Quality Department at (650) 355-3462.

For answers to some of the most common questions, please read below.

What should I do if I have brown water?

Brown or discolored water often appears when there is maintenance being performed on the water system in your area. This can also occur if a nearby fire hydrant has been opened, which can push sediment from the bottom of the pipes into the water supply. This issue is temporary and can typically be resolved by following these steps:

• Run the hose in the front of the house until the water runs clear or run the faucet closest to the meter.
• If it comes out in the hot water only, you should flush out your hot water heater.
• Call the District office at (650) 355-3462 as we may have additional information to relay to you.

What should I do if I have sputtering when I turn on my faucet?

Occasionally, when water is shut off at the main or meter due to a repair, it can cause air to enter the line. Once water is restored in the area, run the cold water and the issue should resolve itself.

What should I do if I have cloudy water?

If you notice that your water is milky, cloudy, and/or looks white this may indicate the presence of air bubbles in the water. In order to determine if this is due to air in the water, fill a clear glass with water and allow it to sit for a couple minutes. The air bubbles should rise to the top and the cloudiness will dissipate if there is simply air in the water.

• Run the hose in the front of the home, or run the faucet at the highest point of the home until the water runs clear.
• If the issue continues, contact the Water Quality Department at (650) 355-3462.

What causes odor in my hot water?

The most common cause of odor in hot water is the water heater. If your cold water smells fine, check your water heater to ensure that the temperature setting is correct. Water heaters also need to be maintained (see manufacturer's instructions).

• Please call the District if the odor persists or if it is present in both the hot and cold water.

What causes white particles in the hot water?

The most common cause of this issue is from the deterioration of the dip tube in the hot water heater.  Check to see if the issue is only occuring when using your hot water, and if so, check the manufacturer instructions of your hot water heater.

What causes black particles in water?

If the particles in the water appear to be black and float to the surface, then they are normally caused by degradation of rubber (elastomer) plumbing parts in plumbing fixtures or hoses inside your home or business. 

Is you're experiencing any issues with water taste, color, or odor, please don't hesitate to contact the Water Quality Department at (650) 355-3462.