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Boil Water Information

Boil Water Notice

There are no active boil water notices in effect for Pinellas County Utilities potable water customers.

Boil Water Guidance

If a boil water notice is in effect for your area:

Use bottled water or boil tap water before using it for cooking, drinking or personal hygiene like brushing your teeth. 

Take the following steps to properly boil tap water before using it for cooking, drinking or brushing your teeth:

  • Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil for at least one minute to ensure bacteria, viruses or parasites are gone. 
  • If the water is cloudy, filter it through a clean cloth, paper towel, or coffee filter before boiling.
  • Water must be adequately cooled before it can be used for washing or brushing teeth. Store the boiled water in clean, covered containers.

If there is no way to boil water, you can add 1/8 teaspoon (eight drops or about 0.5 milliliters) of unscented, plain bleach per gallon of water, stir well and let stand for at least 30 minutes before using. This is less effective than boiling but will work if there is no way to boil water. 

Once the boil water notice is lifted:

  • 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.
  • Clean 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.
  • Clean 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to replace my water filter?

There’s no need to replace or clean water filters in your refrigerator, under-sink systems, or other water filtration devices once a boil water notice has been lifted. The flushing of cold water lines will be sufficient to clear out any contaminants.

Do I need to do anything for my water heater?

Flushing your cold water taps after a boil water notice has been lifted will also ensure that your water heater is safe to use. You don’t need to flush the water heater separately.

Do I need to sanitize my dishwasher or washing machine?

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.

Will my water pressure 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.

Do I need to worry about long-term contamination?

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.

My water is cloudy. What should I do?

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.

Do I need to follow different flushing practices with my business?

The steps for flushing your water system after a boil water notice is lifted are the same whether you live in a house, apartment, condo or run a business. 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.

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