The City of Snoqualmie Public Works Department publishes an Annual Water Quality Report each year, which is mailed to all properties in the 98065 zip code. The report includes details about where your water comes from, its composition, and how it meets EPA and Washington State Department of Health standards.
Following are some of the more frequently asked questions about the water in Snoqualmie.
What kind of water do we have in Snoqualmie?
Snoqualmie ‘s water treatment plant supplies moderately hard water to the community. As rainwater falls, it is naturally soft. However, as water makes its way through the ground and into waterways, it picks up minerals like chalk, lime, calcium, and magnesium. Since hard water contains essential minerals, it is sometimes the preferred drinking water, not only because of the health benefits, but also the flavor.
Do we have a choice of changing the type of water we get at our home?
You can purchase and install a water softener, preferably salt-free.
What is the difference between hard water and soft water?
Hard water is water that contains a quantity of dissolved minerals, such as calcium, iron, and manganese.
Soft water is treated water in which the only ion is sodium. In the softening process, as minerals are removed, sodium content increases.
The major difference between hard and soft water can best be seen while doing household chores. (See below.)
What can I do about household cleaning problems caused by hard water?
It is true that hard water can make some household chores more difficult. You may experience some of the following side effects in your home. There are no safety issues related to any of these, but they can be bothersome.
• Spots on glasses and clear surfaces such as shower doors
• Mineral deposit build up on water-using appliances such as ice makers
• Discoloration on bathroom fixtures and toilet bowl rings
• Film in bathtubs and sinks
The “How To Clean Stuff” website at www.howtocleanstuff.net has many suggestions for managing hard water cleaning challenges. Check the “Kitchen and Bath” section.
Why does the water sometimes have a brownish color?
Occasional water discoloration is due to fire hydrant flushing and fire flow calculating, which is done on a regular, but infrequent, basis. These procedures cause a high flow level to get the data needed. Unfortunately this stirs up sediment in the main lines which causes temporary water discoloration. The sediment is just minerals that have settled in the mains and are not harmful. All discoloration should disappear within 24 hours. Running cold water through your pipes will help to clear it out.
If the discoloration doesn’t go away within 24 hours, please call the City of Snoqualmie Public Works Department at 425-831-4919. We can come out and flush the lines. After hours, please call 425-323-0101(pager) or call 425-831-4919 for a recorded message that will provide contact directions.
Why does the water sometimes have a strange odor?
Odor in tap water is sometimes a symptom of low flow areas and dead ends. If you detect an odor in your water, please call the City of Snoqualmie Public Works Department at 425-831-4919.
Does Snoqualmie’s water supply contain fluoride?
Snoqualmie’s drinking water does not contain fluoride. An alternative to having fluoride in drinking water is to take fluoride supplements, which are generally prescribed by dentists.
Who should I call if I have questions about the water quality or water operations?
Please contact Dustin Possert, Water Division Supervisor, at 425-831-4919 ext. 1147 or dpossert@ci.snoqualmie.wa.us.
Who should I call if I have questions about by water utility account or billing?
Please contact Tania Holden, Account Clerk, at 425-888-1555 ext. 1109 or tholden@ci.snoqualmie.wa.us.