FAQs

Hardness describes the level of the dissolved natural minerals (calcium and magnesium) in drinking water. These minerals are an important part of a healthy diet. Hard water contains more mineral nutrients and less sodium. A gradual build-up of calcium and magnesium in hard water can form harmless, filmy white deposits on faucets, bathtubs, and tea kettles. Hard water also requires more soap to lather fully. The degree of water hardness varies depending on where you live. Newark's water in this area typically has a hardness level of 47 to 60 parts per million which means it is moderately soft.

A century ago, acute diseases such as typhoid fever and cholera were a very real threat to our health because the microorganisms that caused these diseases were found in public drinking water. However, for almost 100 years, water suppliers in America and other countries have used chlorine to treat or disinfect drinking water. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and other health agencies, chlorine is currently one of the most effective disinfectants to kill harmful microorganisms. Disinfection of all public Drinking Water Act and the Surface Treatment Rule.

Turbidity is a measure of the cloudiness of water. The City monitors it because it is a good indicator of water quality. High turbidity can hinder the effectiveness of disinfection.

No. Newark does not add fluoride to the water in your community. However, a small amount of fluoride may occur naturally in your water. About 0.10 parts per million fluoride was detected in your water supply last year.