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  • Our Town
    • 2023 Budget
    • Bylaws
    • Contact Us
      • Hours of Operation
      • Emergency Contacts
      • Staff Directory
      • Organizational Chart
    • COVID 19
    • Drayton Valley Crest and Brand
    • Employment Opportunities
    • Financial Statements
    • History
    • Maps
    • Media Feed
    • Rural Renewal Stream
    • Taxation and Assessment
    • Town Council
      • 2021 Municipal Election
      • Annual Reports
      • Chain of Office
      • Corporate Business Plan
      • Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes
      • Council Expenses
      • Council Videos
      • Inter-municipal Cooperation
      • Public Hearings & Notices
      • Town of Drayton Valley Boards & Committees
    • Mayor’s Gala and Community Recognition Awards Night
  • Services
    • Customer Service Portal
    • Permits
    • Child Care
      • Child Care FAQ
    • Community and Recreation Services
      • Accessible Housing
      • Adult Education and Employment Information
      • Family and Community Support Services
      • Recreation Fee Assistance Program
      • Drayton Valley Cemetery & Columbarium
      • Shelter Pods
    • Community Organizations and Groups
    • Community Grants
    • Customer Self Service Portal
      • E-Billing
      • Online Payments
    • Emergency Services
      • Fire Services
      • Associated Ambulance
      • Cardium Region Victims Services Society
      • Emergency Contacts
      • Pembina Crisis Connection Society
      • Winter Preparedness
    • RCMP
      • RCMP Survey
      • RCMP Crime Map
      • Bike Index
    • Enforcement Services
      • Community Standards
      • Animal Control
      • Traffic Safety
      • Noxious Weeds and Invasive Plants
      • Good Neighbours
    • Health Services
    • Post-Secondary Education
      • Zero Fee Tuition
    • Schools
    • Sustainability
      • Community Sustainability Plan
      • Preserve Our Ultimate Resource (P.O.U.R) Program
      • Waste & Storm Water Disconnect
      • Drayton Valley Energy & Emissions
      • Energy & Emissions Reduction Initiatives
      • Clean Energy Improvement Program
      • Foodcycler Pilot Project
    • Town Maintenance
      • Snow Removal and Seasonal Parking Ban
      • Greenspace Maintenance
      • Spring & Summer Maintenance
      • Summer Greenspace Maintenance FAQ
      • Flowerpot & Flowerbed Sponsorships
      • Dust Suppression
      • Community Clean-Up Program
    • Water Treatment Plant
      • Water and Sanitary
      • Water and Sanitary FAQ
    • Waste Management
      • Waste Collection Services
      • Recycling
      • Recycling Depot
      • Aspen Waste Management Facility
      • Landfill Changes
      • Free Tipping Days
  • Business
    • Small Business Week
    • Economic Development
    • Business Licenses
      • Cannabis Legislation
    • Business and Industry
      • Chamber of Commerce
      • Community Profile
    • Planning and Development
      • Annexation Documents 2010
      • Area Structure Plans
      • Compliance Certificates
      • Intermunicipal Development Plan
      • Intermunicipal Dispute between the Town of Drayton Valley and Brazeau County
      • Land Use Bylaw
      • Municipal Development Plan
      • Permits and Information
      • Planning Authorities
      • Planning & Development Policies
      • Subdivision and Development Appeals
      • Subdividing and Rezoning
      • Planning and Development FAQ
    • Statistical Data
    • Tenders and RFPs
  • Things To Do
    • This is Drayton Valley
    • Accommodations
      • Hotels
      • Camping
    • Arts and Culture
      • MacKenzie Conference Centre
      • CETC
      • Eleanor Pickup Arts Centre
      • Event and Conference Centre
      • Drayton Valley Museum
    • Electronic Sign
    • Events
    • Library
    • Places of Worship
    • Outdoor Recreation
      • Golf Courses
      • Parks and Trails
      • Sports and Recreational Organizations
      • Pump Track
      • Splash Park
    • Parks and Recreation Map
    • Eagle Points Blue Rapids
    • Recreational Facilities
      • Ricochet Oil Corp. Aquatic Centre
      • Omniplex
      • Total Works Health & Fitness Centre
    • Drayton Valley Industrial Airport
      • Drone Rules & Regulations
  • Pull Together

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Water and Sanitary FAQ

The Town of Drayton Valley provides water and sanitary services to residents.  Our Public Works department works hard to maintain these services and infrastructure.  Should you have any questions concerning your water or sanitary services please call the Town Office at 780-514-2200.

Information regarding water conservation can be found by visiting the Alberta Health Services website at http://onesimpleact.alberta.ca/solutions/

 

Click the + to expand the answers to the frequently asked questions.

 

Water Services FAQ

Why is my water discoloured?

First, there is not actually any mud in the water delivered to your home and no mud can enter our pressurized water lines. However, there are minerals in the water that can settle in the main lines or accumulate on older household plumbing made from galvanized steel pipe. The two minerals that can cause the water to be discolored are iron and manganese. Neither of these minerals are harmful. They are found in most vitamin supplements. These minerals can accumulate in the bottom of the main lines over a number of years. When pressure changes occur in the water lines from line breaks, flushing of hydrants, fire use of hydrants, filling swimming pools or rapid turning on of the water (bathtub filling), these minerals can re-dissolve in the water and make it appear muddy.

Why does my water look milky white?

This is caused by excessive amounts of air in the water lines. Air can get trapped in high places in household lines or mains. This trapped air then saturates the water passing through it under pressure and gives it the white, milky look. Fill a clear glass with water and let it sit on the counter. Watch as the milky look disappears with time.

I have low water pressure?

It is a legitimate concern when you notice low water pressure in your home or office. Low water pressure can be caused by many things. Simple problems like the shut-off valve being closed or a faucet being blocked can cause low water pressure, however more serious issues like plumbing blockages or water leaks decrease water pressure, too. Use these tips to troubleshoot low water pressure issues.

1.  Determine if all locations within your home or office have low water pressure.
Check various locations like the kitchen, the bathroom and an outdoor hydrant to identify a problem area or to determine that all locations have low water pressure.

2.  Check the faucet if you only have low water pressure in a particular location, such as the kitchen sink. Remove the end of the faucet. Turn the water on. The faucet has no blockage if the water flow is not restored to normal.

Examine your aerator if the water pressure increases. Remove any debris and replace the aerator.

3. Inspect the water heater if your low water pressure only affects your hot water.
Verify the shut-off valve is not shut off. For safety, each water heater includes a shut-off valve to use in case of emergencies. If the valve becomes turned slightly, it can reduce your water pressure.

Contact your plumber to check your lines into your water heater. Blockages can occur within the lines, and plumbers have efficient ways of checking them.

4. Look at the Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV). Shaped like a bell, the PRV is usually located on the line where it enters the home or office. Adjust it to see if it affects your overall water pressure. Replacement may be necessary if the valve has failed or broken. (not all homes will have a PRV)

5. Check the shut-off valve at the water meter. This valve can influence water pressure, especially if it has been turned slightly.

6. Determine if you have a water leak within your building or in the area.
Call your neighbors to see if they are experiencing water pressure issues, too. If they are, there may be a leak in the lines. Call the water department to report the issue.

Look at your water lines to check for leaks. Check your water usage at your meter. If it is significantly more than usual, it is likely you have a leak. Call a plumber for repairs 

Why do we do hydrant flushing?

There are a few reasons. One, sediment builds up in the water lines and inside the hydrants. So they need to be flushed to remove the sediment. Second, if the water department did and maintenance or repairs on the system, they would need to be flushed to remove and debris that got into the pipes during the repair. And third, fire hydrants need to be tested to find out what their flow capacity is for firefighting purposes. In commercial and residential areas, we have to know if there is enough water available to extinguish a fire. This also lets us know if there are any faulty or shut off hydrants so that they can be repaired or replaced.

Why does my water smell like rotting materials?

This is caused by a couple of things:

Sulfate reducing bacteria in the hot water heater. These are non-harmful bacteria that can grow in extreme temperatures. They are even found in some hot springs. These bacteria take sulfate and change it into hydrogen sulfide (rotten egg smell). Remedy this by turning the water heater all the way up for 24 hours and then flush it and return the hot water heater to its normal temperature. Caution: Be extremely careful of scalding water during the 24-hour period. This water will burn very quickly. Extra caution should be used around children.

Bad smells can come up from drains and be mistaken for being in the water. Remedy this by checking to see if it is actually the water. Do this by filling a clean glass with the water and then take it away from the sink and smell it. If there is no smell, it is the drain and a licensed, professional plumber should be contacted.

Sanitary Services FAQ

I have a sewage backup in my house, what should I do?

Call the Town of Drayton Valley, Utilities on-call phone at 780-621-1074, they will come and check the manholes up and down stream of your home or business to determine if the problem is in the sewer main or the sewer service to the house or business.  If the problem is in the sewer service it is the responsibility of the property owner and the Town of Drayton Valley recommends that a licensed plumber be called. If the problem is in the sewer main the Town of Drayton Valley, thanks you for letting us know of the problem and will correct the problem as soon as possible. 

I have a sewage backup in my house, what should I do?

Call the Town of Drayton Valley
Utilities on-call phone at 780-621-1074, they will come and check the manholes up and down stream of your home or business to determine if the problem is in the sewer main or the sewer service to the house or business.  If the problem is in the sewer service it is the responsibility of the property owner and the Town of Drayton Valley recommends that a licensed plumber be called.

If the problem is in the sewer main the Town of Drayton Valley, thanks you for letting us know of the problem and will correct the problem as soon as possible. 

What is the purpose for sewer flushing?

The purpose of flushing and jetting which is what we do in Drayton Valley is to clean and remove blockages in the sewer lines.

Flushing introduces large volumes of water into a manhole which is effective for removing floatables and some sand and grit from the lines.

Jetting, which is what we do in Drayton Valley, directs high velocities of water against the pipe wall, this removes debris and grease build-up, clears blockages and even cuts roots within small diameter pipes. This is efficient for routine cleaning of small diameter pipes and low flow sewers.

Contact Information

Utilities Department
Town of Drayton Valley
Phone: 780 621 1074

 

 

Explore the site

Road Maintenance & Snow Removal

Ensuring that roadways and alleys are maintained and accessible to all residents throughout the year. Access snow removal schedules and maps here.

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Child Care

The Early Childhood Development Centre and Family Day homes provide provincially recognized childcare to foster the physical, emotional, social and cognitive development ...

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DV 100 Bike Race

Get involved in one of Drayton Valley’s longest competitive sporting events and fundraisers.

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Outdoor Recreation

Drayton Valley has several options for outdoor activity. Take advantage of our many parks, green spaces and playgrounds; have a game of soccer, baseball, tennis, or golf; ...

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Animal Control

Our Animals are important to us. See how we ensure that they are treated in accordance with Animal Control Bylaws.

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  • Our Town
    ▼
    • 2023 Budget
    • Bylaws
    • Contact Us
      ▼
      • Hours of Operation
      • Emergency Contacts
      • Staff Directory
      • Organizational Chart
    • COVID 19
    • Drayton Valley Crest and Brand
    • Employment Opportunities
    • Financial Statements
    • History
    • Maps
    • Media Feed
    • Rural Renewal Stream
    • Taxation and Assessment
    • Town Council
      ▼
      • 2021 Municipal Election
      • Annual Reports
      • Chain of Office
      • Corporate Business Plan
      • Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes
      • Council Expenses
      • Council Videos
      • Inter-municipal Cooperation
      • Public Hearings & Notices
      • Town of Drayton Valley Boards & Committees
    • Mayor’s Gala and Community Recognition Awards Night
  • Services
    ▼
    • Customer Service Portal
    • Permits
    • Child Care
      ▼
      • Child Care FAQ
    • Community and Recreation Services
      ▼
      • Accessible Housing
      • Adult Education and Employment Information
      • Family and Community Support Services
      • Recreation Fee Assistance Program
      • Drayton Valley Cemetery & Columbarium
      • Shelter Pods
    • Community Organizations and Groups
    • Community Grants
    • Customer Self Service Portal
      ▼
      • E-Billing
      • Online Payments
    • Emergency Services
      ▼
      • Fire Services
      • Associated Ambulance
      • Cardium Region Victims Services Society
      • Emergency Contacts
      • Pembina Crisis Connection Society
      • Winter Preparedness
    • RCMP
      ▼
      • RCMP Survey
      • RCMP Crime Map
      • Bike Index
    • Enforcement Services
      ▼
      • Community Standards
      • Animal Control
      • Traffic Safety
      • Noxious Weeds and Invasive Plants
      • Good Neighbours
    • Health Services
    • Post-Secondary Education
      ▼
      • Zero Fee Tuition
    • Schools
    • Sustainability
      ▼
      • Community Sustainability Plan
      • Preserve Our Ultimate Resource (P.O.U.R) Program
      • Waste & Storm Water Disconnect
      • Drayton Valley Energy & Emissions
      • Energy & Emissions Reduction Initiatives
      • Clean Energy Improvement Program
      • Foodcycler Pilot Project
    • Town Maintenance
      ▼
      • Snow Removal and Seasonal Parking Ban
      • Greenspace Maintenance
      • Spring & Summer Maintenance
      • Summer Greenspace Maintenance FAQ
      • Flowerpot & Flowerbed Sponsorships
      • Dust Suppression
      • Community Clean-Up Program
    • Water Treatment Plant
      ▼
      • Water and Sanitary
      • Water and Sanitary FAQ
    • Waste Management
      ▼
      • Waste Collection Services
      • Recycling
      • Recycling Depot
      • Aspen Waste Management Facility
      • Landfill Changes
      • Free Tipping Days
  • Business
    ▼
    • Small Business Week
    • Economic Development
    • Business Licenses
      ▼
      • Cannabis Legislation
    • Business and Industry
      ▼
      • Chamber of Commerce
      • Community Profile
    • Planning and Development
      ▼
      • Annexation Documents 2010
      • Area Structure Plans
      • Compliance Certificates
      • Intermunicipal Development Plan
      • Intermunicipal Dispute between the Town of Drayton Valley and Brazeau County
      • Land Use Bylaw
      • Municipal Development Plan
      • Permits and Information
      • Planning Authorities
      • Planning & Development Policies
      • Subdivision and Development Appeals
      • Subdividing and Rezoning
      • Planning and Development FAQ
    • Statistical Data
    • Tenders and RFPs
  • Things To Do
    ▼
    • This is Drayton Valley
    • Accommodations
      ▼
      • Hotels
      • Camping
    • Arts and Culture
      ▼
      • MacKenzie Conference Centre
      • CETC
      • Eleanor Pickup Arts Centre
      • Event and Conference Centre
      • Drayton Valley Museum
    • Electronic Sign
    • Events
    • Library
    • Places of Worship
    • Outdoor Recreation
      ▼
      • Golf Courses
      • Parks and Trails
      • Sports and Recreational Organizations
      • Pump Track
      • Splash Park
    • Parks and Recreation Map
    • Eagle Points Blue Rapids
    • Recreational Facilities
      ▼
      • Ricochet Oil Corp. Aquatic Centre
      • Omniplex
      • Total Works Health & Fitness Centre
    • Drayton Valley Industrial Airport
      ▼
      • Drone Rules & Regulations
  • Pull Together