Water
Please visit the Des Moines Water Works (DMWW) website for more information regarding the water treatment process.
Water Meter Sizing
Please visit the Utility Billing Rate Information page for more information about meter sizing. Water meters size 1 inch and above can only be installed with the approval of the Water Superintendent on a case-by-case basis.
- Will hydrant flushing affect your water?
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If you are using water when the fire hydrant flushing process is occurring in your neighborhood, the water that we are scouring out of the water distribution system could be drawn into your home’s plumbing system. Although the water may be discolored, smell different and/or have a slightly different taste, it is safe to use. If you experience discoloration of your water supply that doesn't clear after a few minutes of running water, please contact Municipal Utilities Customer Service at 515-963-3565.
If water gets into your ice maker, there is a simple remedy; after the water returns to normal, discard the discolored ice and the new ice will be fine.
Questions? Email Municipal Utilities Customer Service or call 515-963-3565.
- Why do we flush fire hydrants?
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The water distribution system consists of hundreds of miles of water main and thousands of fire hydrants, and each of those hydrants needs to be operated periodically to lubricate the internal mechanisms and check the overall functionality. If a deficiency is discovered during this inspection, most maintenance can be performed immediately. The end result is that the fire hydrants in your neighborhood are available for fire protection if there is ever a need.
Water chemistry can be very complex. Temperature and time can change how water reacts with the water main. Water mains are made of many different materials including cast iron, ductile iron, concrete and polyvinylchloride (PVC). Flushing the water distribution system helps to remove sediment and deposits that may have attached to the walls of the mains or simply settled out of suspension. This is a standard procedure and the water is dechlorinated to protect the environment.
Water Emergency
During Business Hours
Monday through Friday
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Call 515-963-3565 for assistance with or to report the following:
- Your meter is leaking or making excessive noise
- Possible water main break
- Accidental dig-in on water main or water service line
- You observe a damaged or leaking hydrant
- You observe someone tampering with a hydrant
Outside Normal Business Hours
(Evenings/ Weekends/ Holidays)
Call Polk County Dispatch at 515-286-3333.
Utility Bill Questions
If you have questions regarding your bill please contact Water Customer Service at 515-963-3565.