It is important to note that when rusty water is experienced it is normally
not a health concern but one of aesthetic quality.
Rusty-brown, orange, or
light yellow water can be caused by a variety of reasons including:
Water main breaks
Fire fighting operations
Hydrant flushing or broken hydrants
Street sweeping
Construction work or damage
System depressurizations
Corroding iron pipes
Routine maintenance
Normally rusty water events dissipate in 4-6 hours but could
last longer depending on water usage in the area. If the event lasts more
than 24 hours please call our distribution group at 645-7788.
If your are experiencing rusty water:
Do not run your water until it turns clear.
It is of little to no value to do so & is wasteful and costly to you as a consumer.
Use of HOT water should be kept to a minimum, as it will draw cold rusty water into
your hot water tank. If your hot water tank does have rust in it, use caution and
follow the manufacturer’s directions for shutting down, draining, and re-starting
your hot water tank.
Do not wash laundry. Clothing washed in rusty water can become stained. If this
occurs, it is important to NOT dry the clothing. Instead, leave the wet clothing in the
washer and apply an iron removal product as soon as possible to prevent the iron
stain from setting. Please follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
It is important to note that when rusty water is experienced it is normally
not a health concern but one of aesthetic quality.
