Providence Water operates one conventional water treatment plant to purify source water that flows from the Scituate Reservoir to the Scituate plant. The raw water characteristics from the Scituate Reservoir are typical of well protected surface water supplies in the New England region. It is a low pH, low alkalinity, low turbidity water with seasonal overturn events. The hydraulics of the plant allow it to operate under gravity flow conditions. Pumping facilities are available for pumping water to the plant under extremely low reservoir conditions. The treatment process consists of aeration, coagulation-flocculation, lime addition for corrosion control and pH adjustment, sedimentation, disinfection, filtration, and fluoridation.
Why does Providence Water add chlorine to the water?
Chlorine is used as the primary disinfectant by many water suppliers, including Providence Water. Federal legislation known as the Surface Water Treatment Rule, effective in 1989, necessitated changes in the way disinfectants such as chlorine are applied. Since then, Providence Water has strived to maintain as low of a residual chlorine level as possible and still continue to meet the requirements of the regulation. Providence Water's residual free chlorine level for water leaving the treatment plant varies from 0.30 to 1.00 parts per million, considerably lower than many neighboring water supplies in RI, and in the United States as a whole, which often have residual chlorine levels at the consumer tap in excess of 1.00 mg/l.
I am concerned about lead in my drinking water. How can I get more information?
For more information about lead in your drinking water, please visit provwater.com/lead.
Why is my water discolored?
Discolored water may occur because of sediment or rust which has built up on the inside walls of older water mains. This sediment can be disturbed and released into the water with changes in water flow which may be caused by water main breaks, routine maintenance, or the use and/or flushing of a nearby fire hydrant.
Failing hot water heaters are also a source of discolored water. If the discoloration comes only when you run the hot water in your property, check the condition of your hot water heater.
Discolored water can be a problem in areas where there are older cast iron water mains. Replacement, rehabilitation and cleaning of these older mains will provide relief -- however such solutions can take time.
I have low water pressure in my kitchen faucet. What could be the problem?
You may need to clean your kitchen faucet's aerator to clear out any particulates that may have accumulated. Once the aerator screen has been cleaned out the water pressure at your sink should return to normal.
Should I use hot water from the tap for cooking?
No, you should use your cold water tap for cooking and drinking. Hot water can dissolve lead more quickly than cold water. If you need hot water for consumption, heat cold tap water on the stove.
Is there fluoride in my water?
Yes. Providence Water has been adding fluoride to the drinking water for over 60 years. Fluoride is a natural compound found in varying amounts in almost all soils and water supplies. At the right concentration, fluoride is a safe and effective way to reduce dental cavities. For more information on fluoride in water, please visit the Rhode Island Department of Health’s website at https://health.ri.gov/oralhealth/about/fluoridation/.
My water pressure is low in every faucet in my house. Who should I contact?
For assistance, please call Providence Water at (401) 521-6300.
What is my water's hardness?
Our water is considered to be "soft". Soap lathers easily with soft water, whereas soap does not lather easily with hard water. Some new appliances, such as dishwashers, require set-up based upon the hardness of the water supply.
What should I do if I have discolored water?
Flush the cold water in your bathtub for 15 minutes. If the water does not clear up immediately, wait a few hours then try flushing again. If you are still experiencing discolored water, please call our Water Quality hotline at 401-521-6303.
Why is my water sometimes "cloudy" or "milky" looking in the winter?
Our experience has shown that the cloudiness is simply the result of excess air bubbles in the water during the cold months of the year. Cloudiness usually only lasts a minute or two and is harmless.