Customers residing in Carson may have noticed a strong odor in and around their homes. The LA County Public Works Department and the South Coast Air Quality Management District have determined that the odor is likely caused by hydrogen sulfide being released by drying organic matter in the Dominguez Channel, which is not connected to the tap water distribution system. The channel is part of the Los Angeles County flood control or storm water system; it is not related to Cal Water or our customers’ water supply.

As part of our water quality assurance program, we continually treat the water and test it consistently before it reaches your tap to ensure that it meets all federal and state water quality standards set to both protect public health and limit aesthetic issues. This includes tests for odor in water. Our most recent test results, taken after the Dominguez Channel odor issue began, confirmed no elevated levels of odor in the water.

Additionally, some customers may have seen news footage of discolored water coming out of a bathtub. If the water from the faucet itself is clear but water coming up from the toilet/bathtub drain is not, it’s indicative of a potential sewer backup instead – not an issue with the tap water.

If you ever experience discolored water coming from your tap/faucet, please contact our local Cal Water office at (310) 257-1400 so that we may investigate it. Any discolored water would be unrelated to the Carson odor issue.

Please rest assured that protecting our customers’ health and safety is our top priority, and that your water continues to meet or surpass all state and federal water quality standards. If you ever have any other questions about your tap water, please contact us.

For more information from the City of Carson, including claims, complaints, or relocation, visit the City’s web site at https://ci.carson.ca.us/.

Some Cal Water customers may temporarily experience a different taste and odor to their water, due to rising temperatures and algae in the Kern River, from which we obtain water. We treat the water to make it safe to use and drink. While unpleasant, please be assured that the taste and odor are aesthetic issues only; we rigorously monitor water quality, and your water continues to meet all federal and state standards set to protect public health.

In the meantime, you can refrigerate an open pitcher of water, which will help the odor dissipate faster. If it does not clear or you have any concerns, please Contact Us.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your patience during this time.

To minimize personal contact, our Customer Center lobbies are closed until further notice. But, we are still here to serve you!

If you need to make a payment, you may do so here, or see other ways to pay your bill.

We are also available to assist you personally. If you need assistance during business hours, please contact us by phone, email, or through our Contact Us page.

We have suspended water service disconnections during this time, but if you are having difficulty paying your water bill, please contact us.

Thank you for your understanding.