Water Quality
Our Commitment to Quality
San Jose Water is committed to supplying water that meets or surpasses all state and federal drinking standards. Browse the sections below to get information on water quality topics.
In addition, you can find a summary of our most recent water testing results along with other important information in our Annual Water Quality report.
What to do after a Boil Water Advisory
For those who have been through a boil water event (a way to ensure your water is safe if, for example, you lose water service after a power outage), here are some tips for using your water after the boil water has been lifted:
- Run all taps for 2 minutes or until the water runs cold before consuming for the first time.
- All ice and beverages made with non-boiled water since the notice was issued should be discarded. If you have an ice-maker, dispose of any ice made since the precautionary Boil Water Advisory. The next three batches of ice should also be discarded.
- The CDC recommends discarding water filters after a boil water advisory. As a general health precaution, filters should be changed according to the regular schedule recommended by the manufacturer, as old filters can diminish water quality.
Fluoride
What is fluoride and how does it affect your water? See answers to these questions as well as the fluoridation levels in your area.
Backflow
"Backflow" is the reversal of flow of a liquid, gas, or suspended solid into the potable water supply. Find out more about backflow and how we prevent it.
Water Quality FAQs
- Water supply
- Hard & Soft Water
- Safety & Quality
- Water Containment
- Fish tanks, Pools, Spas
EPA Revised Health Advisory Levels
On June 15, 2023, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it revised the Health Advisory levels for four specific PFAS compounds. The new Health Advisory levels are set near zero and are undetectable by modern laboratory methods at this time. Learn more.
Water Quality Open House
Due to high customer demand, in August 2020 we put together an insightful and well-attended virtual open house about all things water quality. Download a copy of the presentation here.