Frequently Asked Questions

What is the source of my water? 

Depending on your location, your water comes from one of two sources. The District treats and distributes water from its reservoir at the headwaters of Reems Creek. We also provide for resale water purchased from the City of Asheville, the majority of which is treated and distributed from the City’s North Fork Reservoir.
 

Is my water hard or soft?

While “hard” and “soft” are relative terms, water provided from the District’s reservoir is considered soft within the industry; that is, less than 70 parts per million of dissolved hardness, and in any case meets all state and federal regulations. Dissolved hardness consists of limestone and calcium carbonate, and this explains the white buildup that can occur over time on water fixtures. This buildup is harmless but enough of it can diminish the efficiency of appliances such as hot water heaters and dishwashers. Water softeners are available for those who would prefer less dissolved minerals in their water.
 

Is chlorine used in my water? Is it safe to drink?

Chlorine is used as a disinfectant in the District’s treatment process. It has been proven over time to be a safe, cost effective method of treating water for drinking purposes. The District uses the lowest levels of chlorine possible to treat water and maintain an acceptable amount of disinfectant in distributed water. These levels are well below state and federal regulations on maximum chlorine levels. Chlorinated water is perfectly safe to drink; some people object to the taste of chlorine in water. Carbon filters that attach to your faucet, icemaker, or entire house are available for removing chlorine at most home improvement centers.
 

Is bottled water better than tap water?

For value, it is hard to beat tap water. District customers pay less than one cent per gallon for safe, clean mountain water delivered directly to their homes. Compared with costs of a dollar or more per liter of bottled water, and it’s clear that tap water delivers! Further, many bottled water companies use municipally treated water as their source, selling that same water at over a thousand percent markup! Tap water is convenient – it’s there when you need it – and environmentally friendly; bottled water uses significant amounts of energy to produce, store, transport, and dispose of.
 

Why is my water cloudy or discolored?

Cloudy or discolored water can result from a number of sources: routine distribution line flushing, water main leaks or breaks, sediment within the water, even the age and composition of your household water lines can contribute to the condition. Under normal circumstances, cloudy or discolored water as a result of District operations should clear up within a few minutes of running cold water at your faucet (running hot water is not recommended until water clears up, as this may discolor the water within your hot water heater). Water that is typically cloudy or discolored in the morning but that clears up quickly is often indicative of old or corroded household water lines. In any case, feel free to contact the District’s offices if you notice cloudy or discolored water on a regular basis and we will cheerfully investigate the situation and provide some follow-up information.
 

Are there pharmaceuticals in my water?

No. The District gets its water from a wholly-owned watershed at the head of Reems Creek, and repurchases some water from the City of Asheville originating from its wholly-owned North Fork Reservoir. Both sources are upstream of any possible pharmaceutical residuals residing in treated wastewater discharge.
 

Is there fluoride in my water?

For the most part, no. The District does not add fluoride in its water treatment process. However, certain out-of-District customers are supplied a blended mixture of District water and repurchased water from the City of Asheville, which does add fluoride to its water supply. Customers primarily affected are in the North end of the District's service area (near Weaverville) and the West Buncombe area of Old Leicester Highway and nearby roads.