Discolored Water

Why Is My Water Discolored?

Occasionally, customers may notice water that appears yellow, brown, orange, or cloudy. While discolored water can be concerning, it is often caused by routine maintenance activities within the water distribution system and does not typically indicate a health risk.

Common Causes of Discolored Water

Hydrant Flushing
Water utilities routinely flush fire hydrants to remove naturally occurring mineral sediment that accumulates in water mains over time. This process helps maintain water quality and system reliability but can temporarily disturb sediment, causing water discoloration.

Water Main Repairs or Construction
Repairs to water mains, valve operations, or nearby construction activities can alter water flow and stir up mineral deposits inside pipes, resulting in temporary discoloration.

Changes in Water Flow
High water usage, firefighting activities, or other sudden changes in water demand can increase water velocity in the system and dislodge harmless sediment.

Naturally Occurring Minerals
Iron and manganese are naturally present in many water sources. When disturbed, these minerals can cause water to appear yellow, orange, brown, or black.

What Should I Do If My Water Is Discolored?

If you notice discolored water:

Run Cold Water

Turn on a cold-water faucet, preferably one closest to where the water service enters your home.
Let the water run for 5–15 minutes or until it becomes clear.
Avoid using hot water until the cold water runs clear, as discolored water can enter your water heater.

Check Multiple Faucets

Determine whether the discoloration is affecting one faucet or the entire home.
If only one faucet is affected, the issue may be related to plumbing within your home.

Delay Laundry

Avoid washing light-colored clothing until the water clears to prevent potential staining.

Flush Appliances if Necessary

After water clears, run appliances such as dishwashers or ice makers briefly to ensure clear water reaches those fixtures.

When Should I Contact the Utility?

Please contact us if:

Water remains discolored after running cold water for 15–20 minutes.
You experience a significant drop in water pressure.
The discoloration persists for more than a few hours.
You have questions or concerns about water quality.

Our staff can determine whether maintenance activities are occurring in your area and provide additional guidance.

Preventing Future Discoloration

Routine hydrant flushing and infrastructure maintenance are important parts of maintaining a safe, reliable water system. While these activities may occasionally cause temporary discoloration, they help remove sediment, improve water quality, and ensure proper system operation.