FAQs

My water smells like cat urine. What could cause this?: If you have had new carpet installed recently, the chemicals used in the carpeting will combine with the chlorine from the water. This will cause a strong cat urine odor.
The best solution is to open windows until the smell disappears.

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Water & Sewer

1. Why is my water brown/discolored?: It could mean a fire hydrant has been flushed recently or a pressure test has been done causing the sediment in the pipes to be stirred up. Run the cold water at the lowest point of the house (basement) until it clears up.

2. Why is my water milky?: This may possible be caused by water line break, causing air in the line. Run cold water in lowest point of the house (basement) until it clears up.

Additionally, you can put the milky colored water in an open container and let it sit for a few hours until it clears up.

3. My water smells like cat urine. What could cause this?: If you have had new carpet installed recently, the chemicals used in the carpeting will combine with the chlorine from the water. This will cause a strong cat urine odor.
The best solution is to open windows until the smell disappears.

4. What could cause my water to have a very strong chlorine smell?: After a heavy rain or during the dry spell in the summer, the city of Akron may have to treat the water with more chlorine. This will clear up in a few days or so.
Place the water in an open container and let sit for a while before drinking or using for cooking.

5. What is the "STW" charge on my water utility bill?: The "STW" is for storm water; all residents in Tallmadge are billed $2 a month for storm water management. This shows up on the bill as $6 per quarter.

6. Can I pay my bill at the Water and Sewer Department facility at 210 Osceola Avenue?: All water utility payments are to be taken to the Payment Center at the Tallmadge City Hall located at:
46 North Avenue (lower level)
Tallmadge OH 44278

There is a drop box located outside of the City Hall entrance drive to drop off after-hour payments.

Additionally, water utility bills can be paid online with our Utility Connect service. To learn more about payment options, visit the Utility Payment Options page.

7. What should I do if I have a sewer backup?: You should contact the Water and Sewer Department at 330-633-0851. The sewer main will be checked and you will be notified of the status.