Water Services

For the most up-to-date water quality reports, please visit the EPCOR website.

Water pressure throughout the Town’s main water system is consistent. Water is delivered to homes through a copper or PVC service line that connects to the water main.

Each property typically has two shut-off valves:

• A curb stop valve located outside the home (usually in the yard)

• An internal shut-off valve located inside the home, before the meter

If you experience low water pressure or no running water, check multiple taps in your home before contacting a plumber to determine whether the issue is isolated.

Low water pressure or service interruptions may be caused by:

• A leak in the service line or water main

• A closed internal shut-off valve

• A closed curb stop valve (including for non-payment)

• A frozen service line during winter

• A plugged water softener

• A clogged faucet screen

• Faulty taps or fixtures

Water service lines connect the Town’s water main to individual properties.

If a water service line is damaged, blocked, or cannot be cleaned, repair or replacement may be required. Responsibility for repairs depends on the location of the issue.

Residents experiencing concerns with their water service line are encouraged to contact the Town for guidance before arranging repairs.

Water moves slowly through the main water lines, which can allow sediment and mineral deposits to build up over time. To maintain water quality, the Town flushes water lines each spring and fall.

Flushing is completed during regular business hours to minimize service disruption. During this process, residents and businesses may notice:

• Temporary drops in water pressure

• Discoloured or cloudy water

This is a normal result of flushing and is safe for consumption. Any discolouration should clear by running cold water for a short period of time.

The Town of Vermilion’s potable water supply is provided through the Alberta Central East (ACE) Water Corporation, a regional partnership of twelve municipalities working together to deliver a reliable and secure water supply.

Water supplied through ACE is sourced from the North Saskatchewan River and treated by EPCOR Utilities Inc.. Treated water is delivered to the Capital Region Vegreville Corridor Water Services Commission and distributed to member municipalities through approximately 350 kilometres of pipeline.

The Town of Vermilion stores treated water in two reservoirs with a combined capacity of 4,275,000 litres, ensuring consistent pressure and reliable service for homes and businesses.

Blue or green staining is typically caused by copper in household plumbing. Over time, copper pipes and fixtures can corrode, releasing small amounts of copper into the water.

This may result in:

• Blue or green stains on sinks, tubs, or fixtures

• A slight metallic taste

To help reduce staining:

• Repair leaking taps to prevent constant dripping

• Clean affected surfaces promptly

If staining continues and appears to be coming from household plumbing or fixtures, residents are encouraged to contact a local plumber for assistance.

Brownish or discoloured water is often caused by sediment or mineral deposits being disturbed within the water system. This can occur after:

• Fire hydrant flushing

• Water main maintenance or valve operation

• Changes in water flow or pressure

To clear discoloured water:

• Run cold water from one or two taps for several minutes

• Avoid using hot water until the cold water runs clear

If discolouration occurs while washing clothes, stop the cycle and wait until clear water is available to avoid staining.

In some cases, discoloured water may originate from internal plumbing, particularly in older homes with galvanized iron pipes. This may be noticeable:

• First thing in the morning

• After water has not been used for several hours

If the cold water runs clear but hot water remains brownish, sediment buildup in the hot water tank may be the cause. Flushing the hot water tank may help; contact a local plumber for guidance.

If discolouration is accompanied by a noticeable drop in water pressure, pipe replacement may be required.

Chlorine or chloramines are added to the water supply to protect drinking water from harmful bacteria and pathogens. A small amount of chlorine residual is required to maintain water safety during storage and distribution.

Some residents may notice a chlorine taste or odour. This is normal and not a health concern.

To reduce chlorine taste or odour:

• Pour water into a clean container and let it sit uncovered in the refrigerator overnight

• Adding a slice of lemon or a few drops of lemon juice may also improve taste

Cloudy or milky-looking water is usually caused by air bubbles in the water and is safe to drink. This can occur when water is drawn quickly from a tap or when aerators introduce air into the water stream.

If air is sputtering from the tap, it may be related to recent water line repairs or maintenance. Let the water run for a few minutes until it flows evenly.

To check if cloudiness is caused by air:

• Fill a clear glass with cold water and let it sit

• If the water begins to clear from the bottom upward, the cloudiness is caused by air bubbles

If the water does not clear, the issue may be related to household plumbing, such as mild pipe corrosion. In this case, residents are encouraged to contact a local plumber for assistance.