WINNIPEG, MB - July 10, 2012 - Peak hourly water use reached a high of 18.8 million litres on Monday, July 9, 2012, one of the highest on record in the last decade. However, it is still significantly less than the highest recorded peak hourly water use in Winnipeg which occurred in 1988, at 40 million litres.
Terry Josephson, Manager of Water Services, says, "The significant reduction in peak use during periods of hot dry weather demonstrates that Winnipeggers recognize that water is an essential resource, and are embracing good conservation practices. Residents are continuing to retrofit to water efficient toilets, faucets, showerheads, and appliances."
Summer water use is typically two to four times that of winter water use. The increase in demand is due to warm weather activities (e.g., refilling pools, watering gardens, flower beds and lawns).
Any time there is increase or change in the water flow in the distribution system, the natural buildup of material in the water mains is disturbed and can cause discoloured tap water for a small number of properties. The discoloured water typically doesn't last long. Residents experiencing discoloured water are advised to run a cold water tap for 10 minutes and then wait 30 minutes. The water is usually clear after that. If the water is still discoloured after two to three hours, residents should phone 311.
311 has been experiencing an increase in the number of calls reporting discoloured water since the hot, dry weather began. With the hot, dry weather in the long-range forecast, water use is expected to increase, and, as a result, the incidence of discoloured water will continue.
Discoloured water should not be used for any purposes that require clean water, such as preparing food and beverages, medical and dental procedures, or laundry. Drinking discoloured water should not make you sick, however, it may not smell, taste or look pleasant.
The City has a program to clean water mains each year to help preserve the very high quality of water as it passes from the drinking water treatment plant to the taps. About 306 kilometres of the 2,400 kilometres of water mains will be cleaned this year in the Riverview area as well as in areas west of the Red River and south of Wilkes.
Tips for reducing summer water use and water bill costs
- The best time for watering your lawn or garden is early morning, before the heat of the day.
- Consider collecting rainwater for watering your plants or garden. Direct the downspout of your eavestroughs into a rain barrel or other large container and keep it covered with an insect screen.
- Adjust sprinklers so only your lawn and garden is watered and not the house, sidewalk, or street.
- Check outdoor faucets, sprinklers and hoses for leaks.
- Use a pool cover to reduce water loss due to evaporation.
- Sweep your driveway to clean it, rather than using treated drinking water.
- Keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator to avoid turning on the tap too often and wasting water.
For information on Winnipeg's drinking water quality, residents can phone 311 or visit winnipeg.ca/waterandwaste/water