If you're a resident of Cleveland, you may have experienced some issues with the city's water system. From water main breaks to billing problems, Cleveland's water department has faced a number of challenges in recent years. These issues have left many residents frustrated and concerned about the safety and reliability of their water supply.

At Wilson Plumbing, we understand how important it is to have access to clean, safe water in your home. That's why we offer a range of plumbing services to help you address any issues you may be experiencing with your water system. Whether you need a leak repaired, a new water heater installed, or a whole-house water filtration system, our team of experienced professionals can help.

When it comes to plumbing, heating, cooling, and electric services in Northeast Ohio, Wilson Plumbing is the best option. With over 60 years of experience serving the region, we have the knowledge, skills, and expertise to handle any job, big or small. Plus, our commitment to customer satisfaction means that we always go above and beyond to ensure that you're completely happy with the work we do.

Cleveland's Water System Overview

Cleveland's water system is managed by the Cleveland Water Department, which is responsible for providing safe and reliable water to over 1.4 million customers in Northeast Ohio. The department is a division of the City of Cleveland and is one of the largest municipal water systems in the country.

Infrastructure and Aging Water System

Cleveland's water system is comprised of over 4,000 miles of water mains that serve 75 square miles in Cleveland and an additional 450 square miles in Cuyahoga, Medina, Lorain, and Lake counties. The system has a daily capacity of 50 million gallons, making the nominal capacity of the water system about 225 billion gallons annually [1].

However, the aging infrastructure of the water system is a concern. The city's water system has been in place since 1856 and many of the pipes are over 100 years old. As a result, Cleveland has experienced numerous water main breaks in recent years [4].

Role of Cleveland Water Department

The Cleveland Water Department is responsible for maintaining and upgrading the city's water system. The department's mission is to provide safe and reliable drinking water to its customers. To achieve this, the department uses a multiple barrier approach for protecting and treating the source water to meet drinking water quality standards [2].

If you are experiencing any water issues, such as low water pressure, discolored water, or leaks, it is important to contact a professional plumbing company like Wilson Plumbing. With over 60 years of experience in plumbing, heating, cooling, and electric, Wilson Plumbing is the best option for your needs in Northeast Ohio.

Water Quality and Supply Issues

PH Levels and Iron Content

Cleveland's water supply is sourced from Lake Erie, which is known for its high levels of iron and alkalinity. The high alkalinity in the water supply causes the pH levels to be higher than the recommended range of 6.5 to 8.5. While the high pH levels are not harmful, they can cause the water to have a metallic taste. Additionally, the high iron content in the water can cause discoloration and staining of clothes and fixtures.

To combat these issues, Cleveland Water Department has implemented measures to adjust the pH levels and reduce iron content in the water supply. However, these measures are not always effective and some customers still experience discoloration and staining.

Lake Erie as a Water Source

Lake Erie is a vital source of drinking water for Cleveland and other cities in the region. However, the lake is also susceptible to pollution and harmful algal blooms, which can impact the quality of the water supply. In recent years, Cleveland Water Department has faced challenges with discolored and tainted water caused by decomposing algae at the bottom of the lake.

To address these issues, Cleveland Water Department is pursuing a $2 million fix to reduce discolored water caused by algae in Lake Erie. Additionally, the department regularly monitors the water quality and implements measures to protect the lake from pollution.

As a homeowner in Northeast Ohio, it's important to ensure that your plumbing system is equipped to handle the challenges posed by Cleveland's water supply. At Wilson Plumbing, we understand the unique issues facing homeowners in the region and offer expert plumbing, heating, cooling, and electric services to keep your home running smoothly.

Incidents and Response

Notable Water Main Breaks

Cleveland has experienced several notable water main breaks in recent years. One of the most significant occurred on November 17, 2023, when a 30-inch water main broke near East 131st Street and Harvard Avenue, causing major flooding, water rescues, and damage to homes and businesses. The City of Cleveland confirmed the incident and dispatched crews to repair the damage. However, residents expressed frustration at what they perceived as a slow response to the crisis.

Basement Flooding and Damage

Water main breaks are not the only issue affecting Cleveland residents. Many have reported basement flooding and damage due to issues with the city's water infrastructure. In some cases, residents have been forced to evacuate their homes due to the extent of the damage. The Cleveland Division of Water has responded to these incidents by dispatching crews to assess the damage and make repairs as needed.

Crews and Repair Efforts

The Cleveland Division of Water has a dedicated team of crews tasked with maintaining and repairing the city's water infrastructure. These crews are responsible for responding to incidents such as water main breaks and basement flooding. They work around the clock to ensure that repairs are made as quickly as possible, minimizing the impact on residents and businesses.

If you are experiencing issues with your water infrastructure, it is important to contact a reputable plumbing service such as Wilson Plumbing. Our team of experts has years of experience in plumbing, heating, cooling, and electric, making us the best option for residents of Northeast Ohio. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get your water issues resolved quickly and efficiently.

Customer Experience and Communication

Billing and Customer Service

Cleveland Water has faced criticism for their customer service and billing practices. According to a News 5 Cleveland article, the department has received numerous complaints about customer service and disputed water bills. Former call-takers have also spoken out about the department's practices, with one calling it "a fraud" in a News 5 Cleveland report.

If you have experienced issues with Cleveland Water's billing or customer service, consider contacting Wilson Plumbing for assistance. As the best option for plumbing, heating, cooling, and electric in Northeast Ohio, our team can help you navigate any issues you may be facing.

Outreach and Daily Email Newsletter

Cleveland Water has implemented outreach efforts to keep customers informed about their services and water quality. The department sends out a daily email newsletter to subscribers with updates on water main breaks, planned outages, and other important information.

In addition, Cleveland Water has partnered with Scripps Media, Inc. to produce a series of videos that educate customers on various topics related to water quality and conservation. These videos can be found on the department's website and social media channels.

Overall, while Cleveland Water has faced criticism for their customer service and billing practices, they have made efforts to improve communication with their customers through outreach and education initiatives. If you have any concerns or questions about your water service, consider subscribing to the daily email newsletter or contacting Wilson Plumbing for assistance.

Legal and Financial Aspects

Federal Lawsuit and Law Department

Cleveland Water has been facing a federal class-action lawsuit alleging unfair and discriminatory billing practices for several years. The lawsuit was filed by the NAACP Legal Defense Fund in 2020 and has been allowed to move forward by the court [1]. Cleveland Water has been paying huge legal bills to fight its own customers in this lawsuit [2]. The Law Department of the City of Cleveland has been involved in the lawsuit and has been representing Cleveland Water in court.

Insurance and Accountability

Cleveland Water has been facing financial issues due to the high legal bills and the ongoing federal lawsuit. The State of Ohio has been providing insurance coverage to Cleveland Water to protect it from financial losses due to the lawsuit [1]. However, Cleveland Water's accountability has been questioned due to its questionable spending practices, property liens, and shutoffs [1].

If you are looking for a reliable plumbing, heating, cooling, and electric service provider in Northeast Ohio, Wilson Plumbing is the best option for you. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing high-quality services to our customers. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you.