Water FAQs

Q. What does purchasing water from Manitowoc mean to residents?

A. Because of the abundance of water available, those water users presently receiving water from a municipal water supply system will not have to worry about shortages or potential water bans or curtailment of use.  In addition, water quality meets all state and federal water quality standards.

Q. I currently use a water softening system.  Will I need to continue using this system with the new water supply from Lake Michigan?

A.  While many residents currently use water softeners because of the poor water quality, the water supplied by the Brown County Water Authority will be much better and less hard.  Residents may find that future use of a water softener is not necessary.  However, water hardness and taste is an individual preference and some customers may choose to continue to use their water softeners.

Q.  What are the grains of hardness for setting my water softener?

A.  7-8 grains of hardness for Lake Michigan Water.  The previous well water was 13-16 grains.

Q.  What is the fluoride level of the Lake Michigan Water?

A.  The fluoride level is 0.7 mg/L

Q. Who do I contact with a question regarding my water/sewer bill?

A.  You may call the Water Department at 339-4046 with questions regarding your bill.

Q.  My water is discolored, is it safe to use?

A.  The water supply is continuously chlorinated and is safe for drinking, cooking and bathing.  When the water is discolored; do not do any white or light colored laundry, it can stain your clothes.  If this should happen, the Water Department has rust remover that it provides to residents free of charge.  It can be picked up at the Water Department office on 1st floor of City Hall, 335 S. Broadway or the Municipal Service Center located at 925 S. Sixth Street.

Q.  I'm having my house siding replaced.  What do I do about the blue water meter register on the outside of my house?

A.  The outside meter register is obsolete and can be removed and destroyed.  There is no need to contact the Water Department when this is done.

Q.  My neighbor has two water meters.  One is for outside watering.  How can I get one, what is the cost and savings by having a no-sewage meter?

A.  For installation of a no-sewage meter for outside water usage:  The only option that De Pere offers residents to avoid paying sewage charges on water used for lawns, landscaping, filling swimming pools, washing vehicles, etc. is the permanent installation of a no sewage meter.  Water lines in the home must be separated so that the outside water usage is measured independently from household usage.  Separating the water lines can be done by a plumber or by the homeowner.  The charge for installing a no sewage meter is $30.00.  A water supply capacity charge also must be paid prior to installation.  The fee for a meter under 1" is $294.00.  Fees increase as meter size increases.  With a no-sewage meter you save all sewage charges.  There is also a quarterly meter fee based on meter size.