FAQs • Midland, TX • CivicEngage

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Water and Wastewater Maintenance

1. Why do I have low water pressure?: You may have low water pressure due to a cut off at meter not being completely open, a faulty water meter, a possible crimp in the service line, a water main leak in your area, isolated water valves on main water supply lines (not open), or restricted water supply through your water softener due to a clog. Please call 432-685-7270 to report low water pressure in your area.

2. What do plumbers mean when they reference the "city side" of the sewer line?: When plumbers reference the "city side" of a sewer line, it is actually called a sewer tap. It extends from the resident/business property line to the point at which it makes contact with the main sewer supply line in alley/street. The sewer line from your property line to your house is your private service line.

3. I have water coming out of my meter box. What should I do?: Water coming out of a meter box could be a sign of a possible leak. Please contact Customer Service/Billing at 432-685-7320 to report the issue.

4. Why do I have discolored water coming from my faucet?: You may have discolored water coming from your faucet due to excessive iron or manganese coming from the main water supply line, possible water main repairs in your area, or possible water valve maintenance in your area. Please contact Water & Wastewater at 432-685-7270 to report the issue if you notice discolored water coming out of your faucet.

1. Why does Midland have water restrictions?: Midland is currently contracted to use surface water sources owned by the Colorado River Municipal Water District. These sources are depleting due to the drought and evaporation. The addition of groundwater from T-Bar and Clearwater Ranches has secured many decades of more water for Midlanders, but the drought necessitates that we be good stewards of these sources.

2. Where does Midland get its water?: The City of Midland’s primary water source is the Colorado River Municipal Water District (CRMWD). This consists of Lakes Thomas, Spence, and Ivie. The Paul Davis Well Field is another water source, and T-Bar and Clearwater Ranches will most likely become the city's primary water sources in the future.

The current outdoor watering schedule allows residents and businesses in the City of Midland to water twice per week.

Even numbered addresses may water outdoors on Saturdays and Wednesdays.

Odd numbered addresses may water outdoors on Fridays and Tuesdays.

Any violation may result in a fine up to $500.

4. How can I request a variance from current water restrictions?: Anyone who would like to request a valid variance from the water restriction schedule may do so by filling out the Variance Petition Form online.

5. Can I use sprinkler system, soaker hose, drip system, hand held hose, etc.?: Any method of watering is allowed during your established watering time.

1. What is the hardness of Midland's water in grains per gallon?: The City’s water hardness ranges from 400-600 parts per million, which can simply be calculated by dividing that by 17.12 which will give you the grains per gallon.

2. My bathroom smells like rotten eggs after I run water from the faucet. What's the cause?: The smell of rotten eggs does not come from water, but rather from the sink's drain. The smell can be neutralized by pouring bleach down the drain and letting it sit overnight. Vinegar and baking soda works as a substitute for bleach.

3. Where can I find information on the City of Midland’s water quality?: Reports and notices about water quality provided by the City of Midland can be found at http://www.midlandtexas.gov/167/Reports-and-Notices.
The TCEQ also maintains a Drinking Water Watch website with information about the City of Midland's system at http://dww2.tceq.texas.gov/DWW/. Midland's information can be found by entering "1650001" into the field labeled "Water System No."

4. What is the City’s average chlorine residual in the distribution system?: The TCEQ requires a chlorine residual within the operating range of .5-4.0 ppm for Midland's water distribution system.