Metro Vancouver Corrosion Control Program

In early June, Metro Vancouver is planning to increase the pH and alkalinity of the region’s drinking water through the use of natural minerals. This increase in pH and alkalinity is an important step in a long-term program to reduce pipe corrosion from naturally occurring elements in our water supply.

The municipal water supply provided by the Township relies on a mixture of locally-sourced groundwater pumped from wells along with water brought by pipes from Metro Vancouver's Coquitlam reservoir.

While changes to Metro Vancouver water affect the municipal water supply, it is unlikely the pH and alkalinity adjustments will be detectable to the everyday user. There will be no noticeable effects on water taste, smell, or colour. However, these changes might prompt some water users (ex: health care providers, breweries, etc.) to adjust and calibrate their operations to the change in pH and alkalinity. Metro Vancouver has identified and contacted potentially affected user groups in the Township.

Visit Metro Vancouver's Corrosion Control Program for more information.

Why is Metro Vancouver making adjustments? Will I experience any changes?

The increase in alkalinity will:

Reduce the release of copper from pipes in buildings caused by low pH in the region’s water;
Reduce leaks in pipes caused by copper corrosion;
Help preserve the lifespan of pipes and hot water tanks; and
Reduce green stains on tubs, sinks, and grout.

It is very unlikely residents will see any difference in their water. There will be no perceptible impact on everyday users. No action is required from residents before or following the changes from Metro Vancouver, and no interruptions to water service will occur.

Is the current water supply safe?

Yes, water provided to Township of Langley properties that receive municipal water service is routinely tested and is safe to drink and use.

Health Canada’s Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality accepts pH levels ranging from 7 to 10.5. Metro Vancouver currently delivers water with a pH of 7.7, and the new pH will be in a target range of 8.3 to 8.5. As the municipal water service is a blend of groundwater and water supplied by Metro Vancouver, the exact pH level of water delivered to homes may vary by area once blended. The pH level will remain within accepted Health Canada guidelines. Learn more about the current pH level.

My property has a well. Does this affect me?

Properties that source their water from private wells do not receive municipal water service and are not affected by these changes. As noted by the province, well water users are encouraged to arrange routine testing.

I provide a service/own a business and feel these changes might affect me. What should I do?

Metro Vancouver contacted potential user groups at the beginning of April. Some of the user groups they identified are health care providers, breweries and bakeries, aquariums/aquarium stores, boiler operators, post-secondary research centres, and pools. If you feel you may be affected by these changes, please contact Metro Vancouver directly.

Engineering Division
604-532-7300
opsinfo@tol.ca