This year’s FALL flush will begin on Sunday, September 14, 2025 and will run through Friday, September 19, 2025.And again, on Sunday, September 21, 2025 through Friday, September 26, 2025. Crews will flush and flow test fire hydrants between the hours of 11 pm – 6 am.
*Rain could potentially affect the planned completion dates and force us to move our flush dates to the following week.
As a necessary part of our semi-annual system maintenance program, Elizabethtown Area Water Authority flushes the water system, so we can continue to provide you with high-quality water service.
Flushing is done in the spring and fall to remove sediment, which has settled in the pipes and collects during the year. While the crews are flushing the system, your water service will not be interrupted. However, you may notice a temporary drop in water pressure or discolored water, which is normal. If the water is discolored, customers should let the water run until it is clear.
Follow these tips while the water system is being flushed:
- Avoid running tap water, flushing toilets, using the washing machine or the dishwasher while the flushing is being done.
- Check for discolored water before using either the washing machine or dishwasher and wait until your water runs clear before using either. If laundry becomes stained from the water, rewash the clothes right away using detergent and a rust remover.
- The discoloration in the water may last a few hours, but it does not affect water quality.
- If the water pressure or water volume is low, check the faucet screens for any trapped particles.
Elizabethtown Area Water Authority
211 W. Hummelstown St. Elizabethtown, PA 17022
FAQs
How do I sign up for a customer portal?
When you receive your water bill, there will be a CID# (customer identification #) that you can use to pay your bill as a guest or to set up a customer portal for accessing your account information and to pay online. To register for a customer portal, you will need your account # and CID #. Go to our website: www.etown-water.com. Click on the icon $ Pay Bill beside Contact Us at the top of the page. This opens a new screen. Click on Register and follow the prompts. An email will be sent to you stating “Congratulations! You’ve successfully registered your account online and are now 1 click away from being able to pay your bill and review your usage from your computer”. You will need to verify your account and the email by clicking on the link provided. This sets up your portal. Note: Your username is your email address.
Where do we get our water from?
EAWA’s water comes from multiple sources. As of 2011, surface water comprises 25% of the total water produced. Surface water comes from the tributary named Back Run, which is augmented with flow during dry weather from the Conewago Creek, which is in turn augmented with flow from the Cornwall Quarry. This water is processed by the Authority’s filter plant, which is located at 211 West Hummelstown St. The remaining 75% of water is produced by seven (7) deep wells. Water is treated at the well sites and pumped into the distribution system.
Why are my bills higher than my neighbors?
Everyone uses water differently. Some people run their dishwashers daily, use an older washing machine, take longer showers, have leaky toilets or faucets. Watering the lawn and flowers, washing vehicles, etc. can contribute to higher bills.
What is an EDU?
“Equivalent Dwelling Unit” is used for the purpose of capacity planning. One EDU is equivalent to 170 gallons of water per day.
What forms of payment does the Authority accept?
The Authority accepts cash, checks, and money orders in the office. Payments by MasterCard, Visa, Discover and electronic checks may be made online by clicking the “Pay Bill” tab at the top of the page. The Authority offers automatic bank draft payments from your checking or savings account at no charge. Contact the office to complete the sign-