Frequently Asked Questions
How do I boil my water during an advisory?
Heat the water until bubbles come from the bottom of the pot to the top. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, let it boil for 1 minute. Turn off the heat source and let the water cool. Pour the water into a clean container with a cover for storage.
How do I get a second meter?
Second meters, also known as deduct meters, can be purchased from MATR to subtract usage from the sewage bill for any water used outside that is not entering into the sewer system. The current charge is $319 for a 5/8" x 3/4" meter which includes a remote radio transmitter. It is the customer's responsibility to hire a plumbing contractor to prepare the "meter set" and properly install the meter. Information is available on the developers page and at our front office. You can call MATR for additional details -- (412) 923-2411.
I'm selling my house and I need a dye test. What is MATR's procedure?
A dye test is used to verify if stormwater is contaminating the sanitary sewer system that is intended to carry raw sewage only. Excessive water contamination is an added stress into the system which can increase rates to residents. The current charge is $225 and requires a 30 day advance notice. All requests should be in writing and mailed to the MATR office. Please remember to include a return address or fax number to receive your results. There is an additional fee of $100 if you need your dye test rushed in 2 week or less. In preparation for your dye test, please make sure all of your storm gutters are unclogged, your fresh air vent cap is not broken or missing, and there is an adequate water supply turned on to the outside of the home/building. Please call the office if you have additional questions.
Is there a service charge included in my bill?
MATR does include a service charge based on the size of the water meter. It is included in the charges shown on the front of the bill. A breakdown of charges can be found on the back of your bill.
What does the "E" mean on my bill?
An "E" next to your current reading means that it is an estimated bill. If you do receive an estimated bill please call the MATR office so that we can correct it with an actual reading bill.
When is my bill due?
All bills are due on the 25th of the month.
When should I receive my bills?
Residential bills are mailed quarterly. Call the office to find out what months you receive bills. Commercial customers are billed monthly.
Who is responsible for the water service line to my home?
MATR performs maintenance from the main lines up to and including the curb stop/shut-off box usually located near the edge of your property. After the shut-off, maintenance for the service line is the customers responsibility.
Why do I have to boil my water?
Boiling the water kills microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, or protozoans that can cause disease. Boiling makes the tap water microbiologically safe.
Why do Water Authority Employees open fire hydrants?
Fire hydrants are opened to conduct regular water system flushing that removes any mineral build-up and sediment from the pipes and also to ensure that water circulates adequately throughout the system.
Fire hydrants may also be opened to conduct fire-flow capability tests. This process assures that fire hydrants are functioning properly in case of an emergency.
Although it may appear to be a waste of water, this process is part of a routine maintenance program necessary to maintain the integrity of the water system and to continue to deliver the highest quality water possible to our customers.
You May See These Occasional Results from Hydrant Flushing:
As a result of the flushing procedure, residents in the immediate vicinity of the area of hydrant flushing may experience temporary discoloration of their water. This discoloration consists primarily of harmless silt and precipitates and does not affect the safety of the water. If you notice that your water is discolored after crews have been flushing in your neighborhood, run all water faucets for a minute or two, in order to clear the pipes in your home.