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Water Impact Zone Area

Water Issues For West San Jose and Los Gatos Customers

December 18, 2018 UPDATE: Yesterday’s water discoloration incident is being closely monitored by SJW professionals. The initial flushing of mains was completed last night.  

If our customers continue to notice any discolored water they are encouraged to flush their lines for up to 15 minutes.  Please begin with your external faucets such as hose bibs. Then move inside to your faucets and other plumbing fixtures. Please call our Customer Service Department at (408) 279-7900 if your water does not clear up after flushing.

SJW’s Water Quality Department is in the process of performing systematic flushing to clean any pockets of sediments in the area affected by this hydraulic disturbance. The flushing operation will be completed this week. All affected customers will be sent a letter related to this event later this week.

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Earlier today, approximately 4,400 customers in the Los Gatos and San Jose area (see map above) began experiencing “cloudy” water.  The cloudy water is the result of normal sediment, which collects in the pipes and was stirred up due to an increase in water pressure. San Jose Water is aware of this issue and is working quickly to resolve the situation.

The water is safe to drink. We are flushing the mains and nearby hydrants to improve the aesthetics and remove the sediment. In addition, we are monitoring the distribution system. The situation is expected to be resolved later in the day.

Once the water in the mains has been cleared, customers can flush their own pipes. We recommend opening the front hose bibs first to flush the lines. Then, they can open up internal faucets to clear any residual sediment.

Although the water may appear cloudy, customers should consider it safe to drink and use in their homes.  It has been fully tested and meets all state and federal regulatory standards.

For more information, please call San Jose Water Customer Service at (408) 279-7900.

For media inquiries, please contact Jayme Ackemann at (408) 918-7247.