Health: Steps to take after a Water Main Break or Boil Water Advisory

Water main breaks can introduce contaminants like bacteria, viruses, and minerals into the water supply. A water filter can help keep your water clean and safe, even if there's an issue with the municipal water supply. 

It can be expensive, but it's a good idea to change your water filters after a water main break, and it's critical to do so after a boil water advisory. 

Even though the water company flushes the lines and may issue boil water advisories, contaminants can clog or contaminate your filter, reducing its effectiveness.

I do this once the utility company repairs the problem or lifts the boil water advisory.

Water Main Break

Boil Water 
Advisory


Action

Yes

Yes

Sanitize your system: Before installing new filters, run water for at least 5 minutes to sanitize your system.

Yes

Yes

Run your appliances: After the water main breaks, you should run your appliances to flush out the system: 

Yes

Yes

Hot water tank: Drain your hot water tank

I prefer to do it from the tank to get the sediments out,   but one could run the faucet until the water is cold, then repeat in an hour. 

Yes

Optional

Refrigerator: Run the in-door water dispenser for a few minutes and use the ice to water plants 

Yes

Yes

Refrigerator: run the water, then replace the filter and use the ice to water plants 

Yes

Yes

Dishwasher and washing machine: Run two empty cycles, then a third cycle with detergent or a machine cleaner. 

If you don't (did not) see colored/dirty water, you can also consider one empty and one with soap or washer cleaner.
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Popular Cleaners: Washer, and Dish Washer

Optional

Yes

Change Filters: Replace whole house and Reverse Osmosis (RO) filters

Yes

Yes

Follow Local Guidance: If your water company provides specific post-break recommendations, follow those to help ensure your water quality.

Yes

Yes

Follow your owner's manual or call your water filter service company. For instructions on returning your system to service, consult your owner's manual or contact the manufacturer or service company.

Changing your filters promptly can help maintain safe water quality and keep your filtration system running efficiently. 

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