Water Distribution

The Line Maintenance Division is responsible for water main installations, new service installations, general repairs and maintenance, inspections, valve and hydrant maintenance, meter repair and inventory control.

Water Leaks

If you notice water coming from under the street pavement, leaking from a fire hydrant or collecting around a water meter, there could be a leak from a water main or service line. To report a suspected problem, call Customer Service at 913-856-0914 Monday - Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM. After 5 PM and on weekends, call the after hours emergency number at 913-856-6802. To repair main breaks, the City crews will need to shut down the water system in the area of the break. Water systems are under pressure, and can not be repaired while water is running through them. Normally, the repairs are made within a few hours, but complicated repairs can take several hours before the system returns to normal. City crews flush the water lines after repairs are made, but, if after a repair your water is discolored, don't be alarmed, as main breaks often stir the mineral deposits that coat water lines. Just allow the water to run for a few minutes, and it should clear and be safe to drink.

What to do if you suspect a leak in your home?
If your water bill is unusually high, you notice water dripping from faucets, or your toilet seems to be constantly running, there are steps you can take to stop the water loss. If your bill seems high, you can call Customer Service at 913-856-7535 and request a test to determine if your meter is leaking.

The City of Gardner's Line Maintenance Department is responsible for maintaining the line leading to your home or business meter and maintaining the meter itself. You, the property owner, are responsible for maintaining the service line from the meter to your building and the plumbing within your building.

If the suspected leak is determined to be either in your service line or in your building, you will need to call a local plumber or fix the problem yourself. Leaking toilets are sometimes the cause for unexplained water usage.

Water Pressure
Symptoms of abnormally low water pressure in the home include:

·  Low flow at all water fixtures

·  Sprinkler systems that do not provide full coverage

Low water pressure within the home can be due to many causes including:

·  Partially shut valves

·  Mineral deposits clogging older pipes

·  Leaks within the home or the service line

·  Low system pressure

If there is low pressure in the home, the first step is to ensure the main water valve into the home is completely open. If the valve is completely open, then the problem may be a leak or mineral deposits clogging the lines in the house, or low system pressure. Customers in Gardner may request low pressure checks at their home from the City by calling Customer Service at 913-856-7535. Usually crews are able to perform these checks within 48-72 hours of a request. The crews will check the pressure at the meter and on any faucets on the outside of the home. If the pressure is determined to meet City standards (50 PSI), then the customer will be notified, so that they can check within the home. If the concern is not due to low pressure within the City system, a plumber should be contacted by the property owner to investigate and repair.