What to Do After a Boil Water Notice is Lifted: A Step-by-Step Guide
When a boil water notice is lifted, it’s crucial to take a few simple steps to ensure your water system is fully operational and safe to use. This guide will walk you through everything you need to do, whether you live in a house, apartment, or run a business.
Flush Cold Water Taps
Immediately after the notice is lifted, run cold water at every tap for at least five minutes. This step will help remove any remaining contaminants from your plumbing system and ensure your water is safe to use.
No Need to Replace Water Filters
There’s no need to replace or clean water filters in your refrigerator, under-sink systems, or other water filtration devices. The flushing of cold water lines will be sufficient to clear out any contaminants.
Water Heaters Don’t Need Special Treatment
Flushing your cold water taps will also ensure that your water heater is safe to use. You don’t need to flush the water heater separately.
Cleaning Ice Makers and Water Dispensers
If you have an ice maker or refrigerator water dispenser, run a batch of ice cubes and dispose of them. After that, the next batch should be safe to use. No further cleaning or sanitizing is needed for the dispenser.
Appliances Like Dishwashers and Washing Machines
Your dishwasher, washing machine, and other appliances that use water do not require special cleaning or sanitizing once the boil water notice has ended. They are safe to use as is.
No Special Cleaning Products Needed
You don’t need to use any specific cleaning products to sanitize faucets, ice machines, or other water-dispensing devices. Running water through them is sufficient.
Flush Water Lines if You Don’t Have a Filtration System
If you don’t have a filtration system, it’s still important to flush your cold water taps for five minutes. This step ensures any lingering contaminants are cleared from your pipes.
Water Pressure Will Not Be Affected
You don’t need to worry about water pressure changes after the notice is lifted. The system remains pressurized, and no additional time is required for water pressure to normalize.
Short-Term Contamination Only
There is no need to be concerned about long-term water contamination. Boil water notices are typically issued as a short-term precautionary measure, and the water is safe once the notice is lifted.
Cleaning Pet Water Bowls
To ensure your pet’s water is safe, simply wash their water bowls with soap and water before refilling them. After this, you can resume using tap water as usual.
What to Do if You See Cloudy or Discolored Water
If you notice cloudy or discolored water after the boil water notice has ended, contact Utilities Customer Service at (727) 464-4000. While the water may still be safe, it’s best to report any irregularities.
When is it Safe to Resume Using Water for Cooking and Drinking?
You can resume using tap water for drinking, cooking, and other activities as soon as the Utilities Department rescinds the boil water notice.
Flushing Procedures for Different Living Situations
The steps for flushing your water system are the same whether you live in a house, apartment, condo, or run a business. Multi-family buildings do not require more extensive flushing due to shared plumbing.
Steps for Businesses and Restaurants
If you own a business or restaurant, no special steps are required before reopening to the public. The same flushing process applied to residential homes also applies to businesses.
By following these simple steps, you can safely resume normal use of your home’s water system after a boil water notice has been lifted. If you have additional questions or concerns please call Customer Service at (727) 464-4000 or email custsrv@pinellas.gov.