7575 Van Buren Road, Baldwinsville, NY 13027
Water Dept. Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my water bill so high?
Most generally, a leak is the culprit for excessive water use. Below is a list if things you can do to lower your water bill and conserve water in the process.
* Check your toilet for leaks. Put a little food coloring into the toilet tank and let it sit for 15 minutes. If the color appears in the bowl without flushing, you have a leak that should be repaired immediately. A leaky toilet can waste as much as 200 gallons of water a day.
* Read your meter, then do not use any water for any purpose. (Possibly do this when you are leaving home for a couple of hours). Read your meter when you return, if the meter has advanced, you are using water and have a leak to look for.
* Turn off the faucet. This may sound simple, but many gallons of water are wasted while people wash dishes, clean vegetables, shave or brush their teeth.
* Protect your water from winter. Outside faucets should be turned off and drained and all hoses should be disconnected.
* Do full loads of laundry and dishes.
* Check faucets for leaks. A dripping faucet can waste up to 2000 gallons of water a year.
* Keep a bottle of drinking water in the refrigerator. Running the water until it is cool is wasteful.
I am selling/buying a house, what do I do?
The owner of the property should notify the Onondaga County Water Authority
(455-7061) of any changes in billing. In the event you are selling your home or buying a new home, please provide the following:
* Current owner's name
* New owner's name
* Property address
* Billing address (for seller)
* Billing address (for buyer)
* Closing Date
* Meter reading at closing date
With a reading, billing can be done to the previous owner for the use up to closing. Then, the new owner can be billed for their use. Arrangements can be made to have one of our employees stop by to get a reading or if you aren't able to make an appointment, you can provide us with a reading.
Why do I have to return cards with readings?
We bill on a quarterly basis. If the meter reader is unable to gain access to your meter, he will leave you a return mail card. Please take the numbers off your meter and record in the boxes at the bottom of the card, fill in your name and address and drop in the mail.
How can I keep from having to fill out these mail cards?
Call OCWA and make an appointment to have your meter updated. We are working toward having a totally electronic system. A new meter will be installed, a wire run to the outside of your house and a small box attached to your house. This will allow our meter reader to electronically read your meter, ensuring an actual bill each quarter. When you make an appointment, be sure someone can be home to meet the installer.
Why is my water discolored?
If your water is discolored, you should call the OCWA so the cause can be determined. Below are several reasons for this condition.
* A fire in the area where hydrants have been accessed
* A water main break, the line would have to be shut down which causes increased flow in pipes
* Flushing of water mains
* Highway Department personnel filling the street sweeper
Why is my water milky?
Usually milky water has air in it. Draw a glass of water and let it set on the counter. The air should dissipate and rise to the top. If this doesn't work, call OCWA.
I am renting a house, why don't I receive the water bill?
The owner of the property is ultimately responsible for the payment of the water bill. If they choose to forward the bill to their tenant, they may do so.
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