Water Restrictions Requested In Farmington Into Tuesday

FARMINGTON, CT — Increased usage related to more residents staying home during the coronavirus pandemic combined with a technical problem have prompted Connecticut Water to ask customers in Farmington to reduce outdoor water usage until at least midday Tuesday.

The 24-hour request was posted late Monday morning.

"Across many of its water systems in Connecticut, including in Farmington, Connecticut Water Company is seeing customer water usage that is higher than usual for mid-June and more typical of the peak season July 4th weekend demands," water company officials said. "Increased residential demands have been seen as customers vacation plans have changed due to COVID-19 and they are enjoying their pools and activities at home and focusing on their lawns and gardens instead."

To compund the problem, a mechanical failure overnight Sunday into Monday in the Farmington system prevented Connecticut Water storage tanks that serve customers from completely refilling, utility officals said. Crews on Monday were "bringing additional seasonal water sources online," officials said. The sources are usually brought online later in the season, as necessary, to meet peak demands, they added.

"It will take time to have the additional sources operational and for water storage tanks to recover," utility officials said. "That is why Connecticut Water notified its Farmington customers (Monday) morning about the issue and asked them to avoid lawn watering, pool filling and other outdoor water uses for the next 24 hours. By reducing water usage, customers will help us to ensure that adequate water is available for domestic use and public fire protection."