Common Water Concerns

Twice a year, in spring and fall, the Town of Shelburne conducts watermain flushing to maintain water quality. This process can temporarily cause discoloured water due to the release of built-up iron and minerals in the pipes.

What You Should Know

If you're in an area undergoing flushing:

• Avoid using water (for drinking, laundry, or bathing) until flushing in your zone is complete.
• Bypass your water softener to prevent iron or manganese from cycling through the media filter.
• Wait several hours after the flushing period before resuming normal water use.

How to Clear Discoloured Water

• Check your water before use.
• Run cold water in a laundry tub or bathtub for 5–10 minutes to flush out any discolouration from your service line.
• If hot water is discoloured, consider flushing your hot water tank.

Flushing zones

Hydrant flushing will follow a schedule which is broken down into three zones. Please see the hydrant flushing zones map. Hydrant Flushing usually occurs in the spring and fall. 

A sulfur or "rotten egg" smell in your hot water is often a sign that it's time to flush your hot water tank. This odor is usually caused by a buildup of sediment or bacteria reacting with the tank’s anode rod.

1. Turn off the power

   • For electric heaters: switch off the breaker.
   • For gas heaters: turn the thermostat to the “pilot” setting.

2. Open a hot water faucet

   • This helps reduce the water temperature and relieve pressure.

3. Shut off the cold water supply

   • Close the valve at the top of the tank.

4. Attach a garden hose

   • Connect it to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and route the hose to a floor drain or outside.

5. Open the drain valve

   • Let the water flow out. Use a colander or strainer at the end of the hose to catch sediment.

6. Flush until clear

   • Refill the tank partially, then drain again. Repeat until the water runs clear.

7. Restore power and water

   • Close the drain valve, remove the hose, turn the cold water supply back on, and restore power once the tank is full.

Low Water Pressure? Here's What to Check

Most cases of low water pressure are caused by clogged pipes or partially closed valves.

Steps to Troubleshoot:

1. Check Shutoff Valves
   Ensure all shutoff valves—especially the one near your water meter—are fully open.

2. Contact a Plumber
   If the issue persists, it may be due to internal plumbing problems. A licensed plumber can inspect your system and identify the cause.

3. Town Assistance
   While the Town’s Water Operator is not a licensed plumber, they can check your water meter to ensure it is functioning properly and not blocked.

Watermain breaks may happen if there is external corrosion of the watermain pipe. Fluctuating weather changes may also cause the ground to swell and put undue pressure on weakened mains. Signs to look for are:

• Water pooling or flowing above ground
• Reduced water pressure in your home

If you suspect there is a watermain break in your neighbourhood contact: 519-925-2600 ext. 231 from Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or 519-938-0124 (after hours)

Frozen pipes can be a serious inconvenience and may even stop water from flowing into your home. If you suspect a frozen pipe, the first step is to locate the frozen section. If the issue is on your property, it is your responsibility to address it.

Who to Call

• Licensed Plumber: A plumber can help locate and repair the frozen pipe.
• Town of Shelburne Water Department:
  • 519-925-2600 ext. 231 (Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)
  • 519-938-0124 (After hours)

Refer to our frozen water service fact sheet for detailed tips and guidelines.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

To reduce the risk of frozen pipes during cold weather:

• Keep indoor temperatures above 8°C, especially near water meters and pipes.
• Seal air leaks in your home and garage, especially near plumbing.
• Keep garage doors closed if water lines run through the garage.
• Insulate exposed pipes, especially those outdoors or in unheated areas.
• Shut off and drain outdoor faucets before winter.
• For pipes inside cabinets, leave cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate.
• If you're away for an extended period:
  • Turn off the main water shut-off valve.
  • Drain your water system through a tap at the lowest point in your home.
  • Have someone check your home regularly to ensure the heat is on and pipes are intact.

Thawing a Frozen Pipe

If the frozen pipe is inside your home, you may be able to thaw it yourself:

1. Turn on the nearest tap to allow water to flow once thawed.
2. Start warming the pipe near the tap, working your way back.
3. Use safe methods to warm the pipe:
   • Warm towels
   • A space heater (to warm the room, not directly on the pipe)

Avoid using:

• Propane heaters or open flames (e.g., blow torches, candles)
• Hair dryers
• Heating pads
• Any electric appliance directly on the pipe

If you notice any leaks, stop immediately and call a plumber

Outdoor Water Use

• Sweep driveways and walkways instead of hosing them down.
• Position sprinklers to avoid watering sidewalks and driveways.
• Water your lawn in the early morning or evening to reduce evaporation.
• Apply no more than 25 mm (1 inch) of water to your lawn per week.
• Use native or drought-tolerant plants in your landscaping.
• Use a rain barrel to collect rainwater for gardens and flower beds.
• Wash your car using a bucket and a hose with a shut-off nozzle to minimize waste.

How to Save Water Inside Your Home

• Check toilets for leaks – even small leaks can waste large amounts of water. Learn how to check for leaks.
• Use high-efficiency showerheads and limit showers to 5 minutes.
• Run dishwashers and washing machines only when full to maximize efficiency.
• Avoid flushing garbage or other non-flushable items down the toilet.

Tips for Using Your Water Softener Wisely

• Ensure your water softener is functioning properly by consulting the manufacturer’s manual.
• Demand-initiated regeneration softeners are more efficient—they regenerate only when needed.
• Older models may waste water and salt by regenerating on a timer. Consider upgrading or consulting a local water softener specialist.

Summer Lawn Watering Schedule (June–August)

To help manage water demand during the summer months:

• Odd-numbered addresses (1, 3, 5, 7, 9): Water on odd-numbered dates.
• Even-numbered addresses (0, 2, 4, 6, 8): Water on even-numbered dates.

This schedule applies to watering lawns, gardens, trees, and shrubs.