Do you test for lead and copper?

The Lead and Copper Rule (Rule) requires Vista Irrigation District (District) to collect special samples every three years. The treatment technique for the Rule requires the District to monitor drinking water at customer taps. If lead concentrations exceed an action level of 0.015 mg/L or copper concentrations exceed an action level of 1.3 mg/L in more than 10% of customer taps sampled, the District must undertake a number of actions to control corrosion. In 2024, none of the samples collected from customer taps exceeded the action levels for lead or copper.

If present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children.  Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing.  The District is responsible for providing high quality drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components on the customer's side of the meter.  When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. If you are concerned about lead in your water, you may wish to have your water tested independently.  Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available from the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

What affects the taste of my water?

The taste of drinking water is affected by its mineral content as well as the presence of chlorine, which is used to protect against potential bacterial contamination. Sometimes plumbing can cause a metallic flavor, especially if the water has been sitting in pipes for many hours. Taste, however, does not indicate a higher or lower degree of water quality.

What causes bad odors?

Musty or fishy odors can be caused by harmless algae in the water, especially during the hot summer months. Even after chlorine has been added to disinfect the water, these odors may persist. Please email or call us at (760) 597-3100, if you notice any unpleasant odors, so that we may investigate the cause.

What causes cloudy water?

Cloudy or milky-looking water is usually caused by trapped air picked up from an air pocket in the water main or internal plumbing.  Unusual surges or flows within the aqueduct can also trap air, similar to a waterfall.  If the water is allowed to sit in a glass or a pitcher for a few minutes, the air will dissipate and the water will become clear.