My water has an unusual color/taste/smell. What does this mean?
White color means there are air bubbles in the water. Let the water stand and it will clear on its own. This can occur when the water level is low in city wells and the well pumps are working hard.


Brownish or red color is usually from iron and manganese sediment from pipes stirred up when city well water level is low or when hydrants or lines have been flushed.


Smell is most often chlorine which is added to the city's well water as a disinfecting agent. It will sometimes smell like sulfur if water faucets have been off for a while. Running the water to flush the lines will help.

Show All Answers

1. Where can I find more information about the modified water rates and city drought ordinances?
2. Can I pay with a credit card?
3. What is the average water use for a single family household?
4. Is my water meter read in gallons or cubic feet?
5. How many gallons in 1 cubic foot?
6. What kind of soft water conditioners are allowed in Solvang?
7. My water has an unusual color/taste/smell. What does this mean?
8. Will the city give me a credit for a leak for which I'm responsible?
9. Who is responsible for water leaks?
10. Why is my water pressure low?