Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

Why is my water dirty?

 

• There could be many reasons why this is happening

o        Water Main Breaks

o        Fires

o        High Water Demand

o        Town-wide Hydrant Flushing Program

 

Why does my water smell?

 

• Your water should not smell.  If it does contact the Water Treatment Plant at (978) 858-0345

 

Why do I have low water pressure?

 

• There could be many reasons for this problem:

o        Screens on your faucets could be partially clogged

o        Pressure reducer in your home not working or clogged

o        Your water service could be partially clogged

o        Your water meter could be partially clogged

o        High water demand

 

If you have low pressure all the time call the Water Division and someone will come to your house and check it.

 

What other services are available?

 

• If you lose water pressure or have a leak in your service call the Water Division to determine the cause and correct the problem.  The town will repair any break on town property at no cost to the homeowner.

 

• The town owns the pipe from your emergency shut-off in your yard to the water main.  From the emergency shutoff in your yard to your house, the homeowner is responsible which includes the inside valve.

 

• If you are having a problem with your water meter contact the water billing department at (978) 640-4350

 

When is my water meter read?

 

• Residential water meters are read twice a year.  They are read in the Fall and Spring.  You will receive a water bill twice a year.  Some bills consist of just water usage and some will receive a water/sewer usage bill depending on whether or not you are tied into the towns’ sewer system.
•  

What if my water meter isn’t working?

 

• Call the water billing office at 978-640-4350 to report this problem.  You will however be charged for water use or water/sewer use up to the time of the repair based on estimated use (based on historical volume usage).
• If your meter freezes during winter months, residents will be charged for repairs or replacement of the meter.  Residents are cautioned to see that meters and service lines coming into the house are protected from freezing.

 

How do I obtain a Final Water Bill when I sell my house?

 

• You must contact the Water Billing Department at (978) 640-4350

 

Why do I pay sewer charges for water I use on my lawn?

 

• The Town charges a sewer fee on your water bill for water that is used in your home such as sinks, toilets, showers, washing machine use, etc.  The Town charges the same for water used that does not go down the drain as it is diffilcult and costly to have users install sewer meters.  Example: watering of lawns, washing vehicles, filling swimming pools, etc.  The Town does not allow separate meters for outside water use, this is done to conserve water resources.

How can I reduce my water and sewer usage?

 

• There are many ways to reduce your water/sewer bill. 
  • Fix any leaks as soon as they are found
  • Take shorter showers
  • Use less water in your washing machine for partial loads
  • Water lawns less often
  •  Do not let garden hoses run constantly while washing your vehicle
  • Do not let water run in sinks for any length of time e.g.; brushing teeth etc.
  • Install water saving devices on your faucets
  • A good tip to see if your toilet is leaking
    • Take some food coloring
    • Take top off your toilet
    • Pour food coloring into the water then watch to see if the colored water enters the toilet bowl.  If it does, your toilet is leaking.  If it does not, your toilet is working properly.
    • If there is a leak, call a plumber to fix the problem.