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To serve you better, we've assembled a list of our customers' most frequently asked questions. If you don't find your answer here, feel free to contact us.
How could I have used this much water?
There are quite a few factors that can lead to higher usage. The usual culprit is a leak. Whether it is in your lines or due to a running toilet or leaking faucet, the usage can add up quickly. The easiest way to tell if a high usage is due to a leak is to look at your meter when you are not using water. If the silver "star" in the center is spinning, or any of the dials are moving, water is moving through your meter.
If you do not see the dials spinning, contact the office. We can send a technician to take a re-read and check for malfunction.
Why do I have a previous balance when I know I sent in my payment?
We may have received it after the due date or we may not have received it at all. You can set up an online account at www.BentonCityWater.com using your account number and phone number on file with us. You will be able to see your balance and other features. Or, you can call our office and we will help you solve the problem.
I need help paying my bill. What are my options?
Everyone needs help at some point! The most important thing is to seek help as early as possible so that things don't pile up. Here are some options available:
- Leak Privilege Credit - this is available to members once every 2 years who have had a leak and received a large bill
- Payment Arrangements - there is a possibility we can do payment arrangements to help with very high balances
You can also contact the Community Council of South Central Texas at 844-887-9241 or visit their website at www.CCSCT.org for assistance.
What do I do if I am experiencing low pressure?
- Check your meter and the surrounding area for possible leaks or water usage
- Determine if it's just from one faucet or if it's all your faucets. If it's just one faucet, check the strainer on the end of the faucet for debris
- Does it happen around the same time every day or is this a new issue?
If you've checked these and haven't found an issue, please call the office. Our technicians will check your meter and either adjust the pressure or replace parts as needed.
Why is my water discolored?
If you are seeing "milky" or white cloudy water, this is due to air in the lines. That could be caused from flushing or a repair in your area. The air bubbles will dissolve and the water is safe to drink.
If your water is tinted (yellow, brown, red), please contact the office so we can flush the lines. Once we have flushed our side, you can then flush your side to clear out any residue.
My water tastes, looks, and smells funny. Are there chemicals in it? Is it safe to drink?
All public water systems are required to maintain a minimum chlorine level of 0.2 mg/L (tested at the end of each line) by state law. Systems that use chloramine as a disinfectant must maintain a level of 0.5 mg/L by state law. Our disinfectant levels are tested daily to ensure safety.
If you are experiencing these issues, make sure your water has not been cross-contaminated with a well or other water source. For assistance, contact our office and request to speak with our Customer Service Inspector.
Why does debris come out of the faucet when running hot water?
Most likely your water heater needs to be flushed. CAUTION: Most manufacturers recommend hiring a professional to flush your water heater. If you plan on doing this yourself, read the owner's manual to keep from being hurt and or damaging the water heater.
Another cause is if you have any water filters, they could need to be changed.
