If Your Drinking Water Is Discolored, Here's Why

From the Regional Water Authority: Due to the high temperatures this week causing a significant increase in water use, some Regional Water Authority (RWA) consumers may be experiencing temporarily discolored water.

Temporarily discolored water comes from naturally occurring minerals in the water that collect in the pipes and are stirred up following an activity that disturbs the direction or rate of flow of water in the water main.

While temporarily discolored water is safe for most people, it may look unappealing, and it is recommended that consumers wait until it clears before drinking it. Additionally, consumers experiencing discolored water are advised to:

Avoid doing laundry. Discolored water can sometimes stain fabrics. Wait until water runs clear at the tap before using a washing machine, and then wash a load of dark clothes first.

Discolored water should clear on it its own, but to help the situation if water is lightly discolored, run a cold water faucet located at the highest point in the house, such as a second floor bathtub, for five to 10 minutes to clear out internal plumbing. If the water remains discolored or is dark, contact the RWA at 203-562-4020.

Report any open fire hydrants to your local police and fire department. In addition to being a safety hazard and lowering water pressure available for firefighters, opening hydrants is illegal and often results in temporarily discolored water.

As always, the RWA recommends that customers use water wisely. Non-critical water use and lawn watering can be shifted to the early morning or later in the evening. Driveways, walks and patios can be cleaned with a broom, not a hose. For other tips on using water wisely, customers are encouraged to visit the RWA’s website at: www.rwater.com.

About the Regional Water Authority

Trusted since 1849, the South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority (RWA) is a nonprofit corporation that delivers water for life by providing high-quality water and services to almost 430,000 people in 15 cities and towns throughout Greater New Haven. As a conscious business, the RWA acts as a responsible steward of the environment by protecting the more than 27,000 acres of watershed land it owns and promoting sustainable practices. It was named a Bicycle Friendly Business by the League of American Bicyclists in 2019. Our more than 270 employees work toward our vision of being an innovative water utility that sustains life, strengthens communities and protects natural resources for future generations. For more information on the RWA, please visit www.rwater.com.