What is a Boil Water Advisory?

If the public water system becomes contaminated or a situation allows the possibility of contamination (such as a water main break or loss of system pressure), we will issue a Boil Water Advisory.

The SC Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) requires the issuance of a Boil Water Advisory under certain conditions, such as widespread loss of system pressure or a large water main break.

If an advisory is issued, we will notify customers in a variety of ways, depending on the area affected. During an advisory, customers should bring water to a vigorous boil for at least one minute and let it cool before using for cooking or drinking. This will kill any bacteria that may be in the water.

Learn more about boil water advisories

Show All Answers

1. Does Charleston have a shortage of water?
2. Does Charleston's water contain fluoride?
3. How is the water disinfected?
4. I live in an older home, should I be concerned about lead pipes contaminating my water?
5. Is it okay to use the hot water tap for cooking or drinking?
6. Is my water safe to drink or is bottled water or filtered water safer?
7. Is tap water safe for use in aquariums?
8. My dishwasher leaves water spots on my glasses. What can I do to prevent this?
9. My water tastes / smells funny. Does this mean it's not safe to drink? What should I do?
10. Should I be concerned about Cryptosporidium or Giardia?
11. Should I be concerned about the sodium level of Charleston Water System water?
12. Sometimes my water has a milky white appearance, why?
13. What is a Boil Water Advisory?
14. What is the pH of Charleston's water?
15. What is hardness and how hard is Charleston's water?
16. Where does Charleston Water System water come from?
17. Why does my water sometimes appear rusty?