FAQ
How do I set up my water softener?
Water hardness can fluctuate and is dependant upon the raw water source. A typical setting for year-round operation would be 9 grains per gallon.
Where does my water come from?
Customers of the Eagle River Water & Sanitation District's system primarily receive their water from the alluvial aquifer in the Vail basin.
Customers of the Upper Eagle Regional Water Authority's system primarily receive their water from the Eagle River, however, at times this water will be blended with groundwater supplies.
Why does my water smell like chlorine/chemicals?
All drinking water is treated with chlorine prior to distribution for disinfection purposes . If you have questions or concerns please contact a Water Operator at the Avon Drinking Water Facility at 970-477-5401.
How does District/Authority water compare to bottled water?
Drinking water standards for bottled water are administered by the Federal Drug Administration and are less stringent.
All drinking water supplied by Public Water Systems in the United States is required, under the Safe Drinking Water Act, to meet or exceed Federal drinking water standards. This program is enforced by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). More information can be found on the CDPHE website.
My water pressure is low, what do I do?
Contact the Customer Service Department at (970) 477-5451.
Who should I contact with other questions about my drinking water?
Please feel free to contact a water operator at the Avon Drinking Water Facility with general water questions at 970-477-5401.
Wastewater FAQ's
I smell odors that I think might be from the wastewater treatment facility. Who should I contact?
Call the Eagle River Water & Sanitation District at 970-476-7480. An employee will gather information from you regarding the odor. It is best if the District is aware of the odors immediately in order to evaluate the possible problems.
I have sewage odors in my place of business (or residence). What should I do?
Add water to any drains that may be in your business or residence to fill the traps. Dry traps will allow sewage odors to escape. Check for any blockages on the vents from your restrooms. Often birds or rodents will build nests over top of them. If the problem persists, contact. 970-476-7480.
Can I tour one of the District's wastewater plants?
Yes. If you are interested in scheduling a tour, please contact Sarah Fleury, Water Conservation Officer, at 970-477-5426.
Laboratory FAQ's
Is the water from my private well safe to drink?
There is no single generic test that analyzes every possible contaminant of concern in drinking water. Each contaminant must be evaluated individually. Well owners should be aware that the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Act does not regulate private wells. For information on issues of concern to private well owners, see the CDPHE Drinking Water from Household Wells pamphlet.
The Eagle River Water & Sanitation District Laboratory is certified to provide bacteriological testing for microorganisms in drinking water (Total Coliform and E. Coli). For more information on private wells, please see the private well information on Colorado Department of Public Health & the Environment website.
How often should I have the water from my private well tested for bacteria?
The Environmental Protection Agency recommends that well owners have their water tested for Total Coliform on an annual basis.
The bacteriological test for my well water came back positive for Total Coliform and/or E.Coli. What does this mean?
Total Coliform is a class of bacteria present throughout the environment, such as in the soil, and may or may not include E.Coli. E.Coli is a coliform bacteria that comes from human and animal fecal matter. The presence of Total Coliform and/or E.Coli in well water may indicate contamination of the water source. If there is contamination, it may either be in the ground water source itself, or it may be from the well casing or plumbing.