FAQ

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.

What do I do if I am experiencing low pressure?

Check your water tap and the surrounding area for possible leaks. Next, call our office and report low pressure for your area.

Why is my water discolored?

A repair could have been completed recently allowing air to enter the line, causing the discoloration.

What chemicals does our water system add to the water?

No chemicals are added to our water.  We do, however, disinfect our reservoir and flush/clean our water lines with chlorine semi-annually (notice is provided when such activities occur). To do this we use only chemicals that are approved by the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality for treatment of drinking water.

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.

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. Call our office and we will help you solve the problem.

Where does my water come from?

An underground aquifer that is located on the Camp Tweedsmuir property that lies just below our pumphouse.

What are the procedures for boiling water during a Water Advisory?

Please see HealthLink BC How to Disinfect your Drinking Water and Interior Health for Advisories. 

What if I am Compromised and have a Weakend Immune System?

Why does the water go off without any notice?

There are a number of reasons why water service would stop without notice.

  • Emergency repairs. From time to time portions of the system can fail causing a leak that if not fixed immediately could result in the loss of service to the entire system. This may require part of the system to be shut down.

  • Loss of supply. The system may simply be out of water likely due to an extended power failure. During power outages, conserving water will extend the time before the water runs out.

  • Use of fire hydrants. Fire fighting use may reduce pressure and flow, even to the point of loss of service at the high points in the system.

    When there is an interruption in water service ratepayers you can check our webite for "Alerts".

How often is the water tested?

Water is tested weekly for Total Coliform and E. Coli counts. The samples are sent to Caro in Kelowna for testing there is a two day waiting period for the results.

Why do we need to flush and chlorinate the water system?

BFWD flushes the water lines and hydrants once in the spring and fall. This process is part of a routine maintenance program necessary to maintain the integrity of the water system, so we can continue to deliver the highest quality water possible. Notices are mailed out to ratepayers in advance of scheduled water main flushing and its posted on the website. Emergency flushing due to water main breaks or other events do occur and advance notice of such flushing is not possible.   Flushing occurs during a period of several days, there may be a taste and smell of chlorine in the water, but this will dissapear .  The treated water will disinfect your water lines.