FAQs • Anderson, IN • CivicEngage

What is a stop and waste valve?: This is a type of valve that not only shuts off the flow of water but has a side port that when unscrewed allows the water to drain back, hence the term waste. This term is often applied to other type of valves that simply stop the flow of water.

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Water Department

1. My water pressure seems low. What should I do?: The first thing you would want to do is acquire some basic information. Is it only one faucet in the house? Is it all of them? If one or more faucets in the house have normal pressure or volume, then chances are it is an internal problem and not generally something the city can help you with. Many times, it's a simple matter of unscrewing and rinsing out the aerator on the faucet to return a faucets flow to normal. Sometimes, simply working the valve underneath the sink in order to remove the small amount of debris that can get caught in the valve and impede the water flow.
If all of your water faucets are affected, then first check your stop and waste valve (the main shut off where the water enters the building) to be sure it and all other valves are on all the way. At that point, if the problem is still not resolved, then simply call us and we will come out to check our service and meter, etc.

2. Are adjustments made for water leaks due to a leaking faucet or toilet?: No, regrettably, the water that was wasted still had to be processed and delivered to your home and then went into the sewer system to have to be processed by the Wastewater Treatment Facilities.
Some leaks, such as those occurring in your yard or outside spigot, may not have gone through the sewer system and therefore an adjustment on sewage may be applicable in these specific cases.

3. Is there any adjustment to my bill for using water on my lawn, filling a pool, washing cars, or other uses where water does not go down the sewer?: Yes, automatic adjustments on sewage for residential customers occur during the summer months. It is advisable to contact the Utility Office beforehand to make sure these adjustments go through.

4. In an emergency water leak at my property after hours, who do I call?: Customers needing immediate assistance or service after regular business hours should call our Control Center at 765-648–6444. This line is staffed 24 hours a day.

5. Where is my main valve in case I need to turn my water off?: Although we would have no record of it, your stop and waste valve should be located at the point in which your water service enters the building in a utility room, crawlspace or basement. Homeowners should conduct a quick survey to determine where this valve is located and to verify that it is an operating condition.

6. Does my water contain flouride?: Yes, we add fluoride to the naturally occurring level already present in the water to obtain the optimum dosage recommended by the state Board of Health, which is one part per million. Studies consistently show that fluoridated drinking water does as much or more to protect the teeth (especially in children) than fluoridated toothpaste. Basically, fluoride strengthens the enamel of the teeth and even provides repair to microscopic decay before that damage becomes evident.

7. When is the best time to water my lawn?: Close to sunset and shortly thereafter are the best times to water your lawn to avoid excessive evaporation from the heat of the sun.

8. I have a leak, whose responsibility is it?: Anything after the customer service connection, a point located near the curb or right-of-way designated by the Utility is the customer's responsibility. This is usually at the cities shut off valve or curb stop or meter pit located near the curb, easement or right-of-way. Should you have any questions or need any help in making this determination, please call our offices at 765-648–6436. If it is after hours, then call 765-648–6444.
Business Hours are 7am to 3pm

9. New water service, who do I contact?: Call the Utility Office at 765-648–6187 during regular business hours. Regular Business hours are 8am - 5pm

You would contact the water department at 765-648-6436. If it is after hours, then call 765-648-6444.

Regular Business Hours are 7am to 3pm

11. What is a stop and waste valve?: This is a type of valve that not only shuts off the flow of water but has a side port that when unscrewed allows the water to drain back, hence the term waste. This term is often applied to other type of valves that simply stop the flow of water.