Plainview Water District Responds Urgently to Any Water-Related Emergency
The Plainview Water District (PWD) knows the last thing its community wants during this time of holiday cheer is a water main break, but they are inevitable given the upcoming frigid temperatures. As the winter weather continues to set in, main breaks can become a more common occurrence, but the District is prepared to respond quickly and effectively to minimize the disruption to its residents.
“Water main breaks are inevitable in any region that experiences temperature fluctuations throughout the winter,” said PWD Chairman Marc Laykind. “While it is impossible to predict when and where a main break will occur, the Plainview Water District is prepared to respond to them at all hours in order to reduce the potential interruptions to our residents’ water service.”
As the case with all cold-weather climates, water main breaks are an unfortunate reality. Water main breaks typically occur when there is movement in the soil around water pipes or a freeze/thawing condition. Water mains are installed below the frost line; but, when the soil shrinks or swells, it increases pressure on the pipes causing a break. Though the length of time to repair a leak is different for each individual break due to location and severity, all PWD employees are trained to repair all types of breaks efficiently and quickly.
“The District is so proud to have some of the most hardworking and dedicated staff in the industry,” said PWD Commissioner Amanda Field. “As soon as the PWD is alerted of a break, a team is dispatched immediately to minimize disruptions and perform the repair in an expeditious manner.”
For Plainview-Old Bethpage residents, the PWD encourages residents to be on the lookout for any water main breaks. Residents that notice a significant reduction in the water pressure from faucets, areas of wetness along the curb, bubbling of water in the roadway, or any unexplainable icy conditions are encouraged to contact the Plainview Water District immediately at 516-931-6469.
“The District has systems in place that are effective at quickly identifying main breaks, but there are situations where they cannot be detected right away,” said PWD Commissioner Andrew Bader. “If a resident suspects there may be a water main break in their neighborhood, we urge them to contact the PWD right away and report the situation. Once a break is located, it can be repaired quickly.”
Water main breaks may also result in residents experiencing air in their pipes and/or discolored water. Water discoloration is not harmful for consumption, but can stain laundry. If you experience discolored water, please let the cold water run from a faucet or tub at the closest area to your incoming service line for approximately three minutes or until it clears.