RECYCLED WATER overview
If the water coming from your taps is a dirty yellow-brown colour this is normally caused by iron or manganese particles.
Iron and manganese are metals that occur naturally in water. Sometimes there is a build-up in pipes and this is disturbed if there is a change of water pressure.
We sometimes see iron/manganese discolouration in water as a result of a burst water main or use of a fire hydrant. This is temporary and will clear within a few days.
Is it safe to drink?
While water discoloured by manganese/iron does not necessarily restrict its use for drinking, you are advised in the first instance to contact Council for further advice.
Will discoloured water stain my laundry?
Yes, discoloured water could stain your laundry.
If this happens make sure you keep your washing immersed in water. Do not let your washing dry.
There are several commercial rust removers that are available from the supermarket, or call Council on 6686 4444 for a free cleaning kit that contains a powder called citric acid.
For more information:
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU HAVE DISCOLOURED WATER?
Discoloured water coming out of your taps is usually temporary. Put a bucket under the garden tap closest to your water meter for a couple of minutes to see if it clears.
If it doesn’t clear, call Council on 6686 1497.
Water that is a milky colour or cloudy is often caused by fine air bubbles.
This can be caused by a change of water pressure which results in air getting into our water mains or pipes. These air bubbles make water coming from the tap look cloudy.
There is nothing to be alarmed about. The air bubbles disappear quickly.
Fill a glass with water and allow it to stand for a couple of minutes. If the air bubbles are dissolving upwards you have air in the water supply.
Is it safe to drink?
Bubbles in the water do not affect its quality. It is still safe to drink.
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If water is not flowing down your sink or if your toilet is blocked there could be a blocked pipe. Determining whether this blockage is within your property boundary can be difficult and we suggest you call Council before a commercial plumber.
It's also helpful to check to see if your neighbours are experiencing the same problem. If your property is the only one affected you may have a blocked pipe.
Council has Wastewater Operators on-call 24/7 who can investigate if the problem is within Council’s sewer lines and therefore our responsibility to fix. If Council staff determine the problem is not in the mains you will then need to contact a plumber but you will never be charged for Council’s investigation, even if it requires a site visit.
If the blockage is within your property the owner will be responsible for the plumbing bill.
The best way to avoid a blocked toilet is to remember the Three Ps. Only flush Pee, Poo and Paper down your toilet. Any other materials such as wet wipes, cotton buds, sanitary items and dental floss do not break down and could eventually block your pipes.
If you have a blockage contact Council's Water and Wastewater Team
Business Hours: 02 6686 1497
After hours/weekends: 02 6626 6954
If you have no water at home, or if your water pressure is low you should:
Please report the leak by calling Council: