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1. I bought a new dishwasher and the manufacturer wants to know what the hardness of the water is?

With a system-wide average for hardness ranging between 2 and 5 grains per gallon (a unit of measure commonly used by dishwasher manufacturers) or 15-90 milligrams per liter (mg/l), Concord’s water is considered to be relatively soft. For more information on the hardness of Concord’s water, please view the Water Quality page.

2. What is the pH of my water?

On average, the pH of Concord’s water ranges from 7.0 to 7.5 units. For water treatment purposes, we strive to keep the pH between 7.0 and 7.8 units. This adjustment is done primarily to prevent the water from becoming corrosive and leaching metals into your water from household plumbing structures. For more information on the pH of Concord’s water, please view the Water Quality page.

3. What do I do if my water bill seems high?

First, you want to check for leaks. The “usual suspects” for leaks are toilets and in-ground irrigation systems. If no leaks are detected, then you can do some sleuthing by using your water meter. Most water meters are located in basements near the wall closest to the street. They can also be in a utility closet, mechanical room or outside in a pit in the ground. In Concord, the meters measure water use in cubic feet (CF). One cubic foot equals 7.48 gallons. You can use your meter to track water usage throughout the day or week to determine when a lot of water is being used. Are evening baths the culprit? Daily loads of laundry? Or morning lawn watering? Still baffled? CPW offers free water use audits to residential customers. Call 978-318-3250 to schedule an audit.

4. How can I check to see if I have leaks in my house?

Make sure all water using appliances in your home are shut off. Most water meters have a low-flow detector, often displayed as a small red or black triangle. You have a leak if you see this triangle move. Also, Concord Public Works (CPW) has dye tablets available to determine if your toilet is leaking.

5. Where can I pay my water and sewer bill and who should I call with questions about my bill?

Payments can be mailed to: Town House P.O. Box 535 Concord, MA 01742-0535. 

Payments can also be made in person at the Town House, located in Monument Square. Any questions regarding your water and sewer bill should be directed to Utility Customer Service at 978-318-3101. 

We cannot accept payment at the Water and Sewer Division office.

6. Why is my hot water brown and not my cold water?

This is caused by sediment buildup in your hot water system. Currently, iron and manganese are treated chemically to sequester the particles and keep your cold water running clear. When heated, especially in large tanks and at temperatures above 125° fahrenheit, the chemical bonds break down and particles settle out.

Over time a layer of sediment will buildup in the tank and when high demand is placed on your hot water the sediment becomes stirred up. This situation can typically be remedied by turning down your hot water tank temperature if it is high and flushing out your tank twice a year. Manufacturers suggest doing this once year for general maintenance but twice a year (when you switch your clocks) will keep it nice and clean.

7. How do I schedule a final water meter reading?

Call Utility Customer Service 978-318-3101 to schedule your final water meter reading. At that time, we will also set up the billing information for the new owner.