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Lead and copper have the potential to be dissolved in water but only if the conditions are conducive to such.  Lead and copper are not present in the source of water.  The can only enter the water supply if they are part of the plumbing system that conveys water to your house.

In order for lead or copper to leach into the water in the pipes, there must be older pipes that use lead solder or copper pipes that are commonly used.  In addition, the water must be of a nature that will allow for the lead and or copper to be dissolved into the water.  The amount of time water sits in contact with the pipes has an influence on the possible leaching of the lead and/or copper.

In order to minimize the probability of lead and or copper to enter the water, treatment is performed at the water plants to reduce any natural tendencies of the water to leach out the lead and copper.

The District is required to do extensive testing of the water supply to ensure the levels of lead and copper are below federal and state standards.  The results of the testing have always and continuously indicated the levels of lead and copper are in compliance.

One way a homeowner can further ensure there is no lead or copper in their tap water is to flush the tap before filling up a drinking glass.  By flushing the water for a few minutes to remove the first slug of water that may have been in contact with lead plumbing.

Water pressure in the water mains is relatively constant.  If you are observing a reduction in pressure, the first thing to do is narrow down where you may be experiencing the issue.  If it is just in a location such as a shower head or a bathroom, there are certain things you can look for.  If it is the entire house, then other probabilities are occurring.

One Location: If the pressure is lower in one location like a shower head, it is likely that material has accumulated in the shower head and just needs to be cleaned out.  The same is true for a kitchen sink.  Youtube “How To Clean Out A Faucet Head” for step by step instructions.

The Entire House: If there is a sudden reduction in pressure throughout the house, one should check for a valve that was operated or if applicable, if a pressure reducing device (PR Valve) has malfunctioned.  You can also check for clogged filters if you have a whole house filtration system.

If you cannot determine where the pressure reduction is coming from, then please contact the office and we can check on the plumbing owned by the District.

The district occasionally receives calls from customers asking why the water smells like chlorine.  The reason chlorine is added to a water supply is very basic, the level to which people notice the smell is very diverse.

The addition of chlorine to a water supply began in the early 20th century.  At the time it was first introduced, water borne diseases in this country such as typhoid, cholera, and hepatitis were the primary cause of death to most Americans.  The introduction of chlorine to a water supply had a remarkable effect of extending the longevity of human life.  It is one of the greatest discoveries in the development of the human race.

Chlorine continues to be used today to be certain disease is not spread by the water supply.  The District adds chlorine to the water supply at each plant.

Chlorine does impart an odor in the water which some people find undesirable.  One means of reducing the chlorine odor from the tap water is to fill a container and leave the top off.  Chlorine will dissipate from the water if left open to the atmosphere.  Keeping a pitcher of water in the refrigerator at all times will ensure access to a cold and relatively odor free source of water.  You can obtain 100 gallons of District water for about $0.50.  It costs much more than that for only 1 gallon of bottled water.

There are devices sold at retail stores which remove chlorine from water at the kitchen sink.  They do work, but, come with a cost.  It is best to try the pitcher of water suggestion above before spending money on any device or buying bottled water. Save your money and drink plenty of tap water.

Electronic Bill Payment

The Water District offers our customers online bill pay. No account profile needed. Simple and easy payments.

LOG-IN OR ENROLL NOW

ONE-TIME BILL PAYMENT VIA PHONE

To make a one-time telephone payment call 304-263-8566

PAY IN PERSON

The Water District accepts money orders, cashier’s checks, credit and debit cards at:

65 District Way, Martinsburg, WV 25403, Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

251 Caperton Blvd, Martinsburg, WV 25403, Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM.

MAIL CHECKS TO:

BCPSSD

P.O. BOX 944

MARTINSBURG, WV 25402

AFTER HOURS DROP OFF

(checks only, no cash!)

Night drop box located at front entrance of 65 District Way

Night drop box located at front entrance of 251 Caperton Blvd

To update your contact information, please call 304-267-4600 to talk to a customer service representative to update your current telephone number and e-mail with the Water District.

In general, if you live south of Martinsburg, your water is either from the LeFevre Spring which is treated at the Bunker Hill Water Filtration Plant or from groundwater wells located at the Springdale Farm Well Field on Goldmiller Road.

In general, if you live north of Martinsburg, your water is from the Potomac River or the Potomac Station wells, and it is treated at the Potomac River Water Filtration Plant.