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1. I own tropical fish. Do I need to do anything to the water before I put it in the fish tank?

Yes. You need to dechloraminate the water. Local pet/aquarium stores sell a product that will remove chloramines from the water, making it safe for fish and other amphibians.

2. Can I use hot tap water to make baby formula?

When using water for cooking or preparing baby formula, we recommend that you use cold water. Hot water is generally created by your home water heater which may contain impurities. In addition, metals from household pipes and plumbing (faucets) dissolve quicker in hot water than cold water, therefore, cold water may contain less impurities than hot water.

3. Is there fluoride in my drinking water?

Yes. Newport News Waterworks adheres to drinking water regulations set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and guidance provided by the Virginia Department of Health (the regional VDH Office of Drinking Water is located in Virginia Beach). Waterworks maintains a fluoride level of about 0.7 mg/L (milligrams per liter) at the plants. This is well within the range set by EPA and in accordance with the recommendation of 0.7 mg/L set by the VDH. A proposed recommendation to lower the fluoride level is being studied nationally and locally. As of yet, the VDH has not altered their recommendation of 0.7 mg/L to Virginia water utilities. If and when they do, we will comply with their recommendation.

4. How “hard” is our tap water?

Water hardness is not regulated. Our tap water stays in the “moderately hard” range.

5. Why does the tap water sometimes look “cloudy”?

Cloudy water sometimes occurs in the winter because cold water can trap and hold larger amounts of dissolved oxygen than warm water – the cloudiness is caused by air bubbles. Let a cloudy glass of water sit for a minute or two and the air bubbles will dissipate on their own.

6. How can I find out more about our drinking water quality?

Each year, Waterworks publishes a Water Quality Report that explains where your water comes from, how it is treated and the results of water tests. That same report and an expanded (more information) report can be found on our web site at by clicking here. Please note: there is a separate water quality report for our Lightfoot well system customers in Upper York County.

7. How often is our water tested?

Approximately 2,000 water quality tests are run each month from samples taken across the service area (Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, York County and the Grove District of James City County).

8. Can I get my water tested?

If you are concerned about your water quality, yes. We will test your water from your meter, outside your home. You do not have to be home. Call Waterworks Customer Service at 757-926-1000 (press 4) and speak with a representative. The results of the test will be mailed to you.

9. Who would I call regarding cloudy or discolored water?

Contact Newport News Waterworks at 757-926-1000 for anything having to do with your water.