As of 3 p.m. today (Monday, July 24), the City of Artesia was notified by the Drinking Water Bureau, Environment Department, State of New Mexico, that the Boil Water Alert implemented Saturday, July 15, has been lifted.
However, for those residents and business owners that would like to prepare their facilities to safely return to normal operations, it is strongly suggested that actions be taken to flush their systems and ensure fresh water is in their system before use. The list of recommended actions is attached to this press release.
Again, the Boil Water Alert has been lifted by the State of New Mexico Drinking Water Bureau as of 3 p.m. today (Monday, July 24). City of Artesia personnel will continue to assist all residents needing help complying with the lifting of the Boil Water Alert. Questions can be directed to City personnel by calling 575-746-9821 or 575-748-0267.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR POST BOIL ORDER
Following the lifting of the boil order, residents are advised to clear plumbing of potentially contaminated water. Flushing your household and building water lines includes interior and exterior faucets, showers, water and ice dispensers, water treatment units, and so on.
Please follow these guidelines:
Flush sinks, tubs and showers: use both hot and cold water for a minimum of 5 minutes, or until the water turns cold. Running hot water until cold will ensure that the water in the water heater will be replaced with fresh water. For a residence with multiple levels, start at the top floor.
Toilets: none required.
Washing Machines: none required.
Dish Washers: run through 1 cycle, use the sanitize cycle if equipped.
Outdoor Spigots: flush for a minimum of 5 minutes.
Refrigerator Water Dispenser: flush for a minimum of 5 minutes or at least 1 quart of water.
Faucet/Fridge Water Filters: consider replacing filter per manufacturer recommendation.
In-Line Water Filter: consider replacing filter per manufacturer recommendation.
Ice Makers: dump all existing ice and discard new ice made for an aditional 3 cycles in a 24 hour period to assure complete purging of the water supply line. Wash and sanitize ice bin.
Water Softeners: cycle water softener per manufacturer recommendation.
Reverse Osmosis Systems: cycle through and consider replacing filters per manufacturer recommendation.
Soft Drink Dispensers: contact your service representative. You can also disconnect flavoring and cycle water through for a minimum of 5 minutes, then reconnect flavoring.
Due to the flushing of the water lines by residents and the flushing of the hydrants, some customers may experience a temporarily reduced pressure and/or discolored water. However, this is an expected result and does not pose a health risk. Contact the Water Department if you have any questions at 575-746-9821.
