Water discolouration after Joburg maintenance – What to do

1 Views

Rand Water had informed Johannesburg residents that they might notice different water discolouration such as milky or dark brown when supply returns.

This follows the 86-hour water shutdown Johannesburg experienced due to planned maintenance. With some households now getting supply, some have noticed that their water is not as clear as it should.

According to the water utility, this is normal after maintenance had been carried out. Here are the different discolouration you might have or will notice.

DIFFERENT WATER DISCOLOURATION

Rand Water shared a detailed document explaining the different water discolouration to expect. It said: “Rand Water does not recommend that anyone drink water that looks, smells, or tastes objectionable.” In certain instances, people are advised to boil the water before consumption. Here are the various colours that are expected after maintenance and their causes.

GREEN OR BLUE

According to Rand Water green or blue water is caused by corrosion of copper plumbing. This leads to a bluish-green stain on porcelain items. Metals such as copper or lead, which can get into drinking water from corrosion, may be a health risk. Water that’s very corrosive may even cause issues with the plumbing in a home.

BLACK OR DARK BROWN

This water discolouration is usually have two causes. These include the presence of manganese in the water or pipe sediment.

BROWN, RED, ORANGE OR YELLOW

These colours are usually caused by iron rust. This rusty water can be due to galvanised iron, cast iron or steel pipes in a home, business or water main. Despite this discolouration causing damage to clothes and household items, drinking it is not a health hazard.

MILKY WHITE OR CLOUDY

Tiny air bubbles are often the cause of milky white or cloudy water. If the cause is trapped air then it’s not a health threat.

WHAT TO DO?

The first thing you need to do if your drinking water is one of these colours is to check the source of the problem. Find out if the discolouration is due to the plumbing, the water utility or your borehole. The water utility said:

“The only way to tell is to ask others in your neighbourhood if they have a similar problem. Another is to contact your water utility or municipality in your area or a local health inspector.”

If water is blue or green, you can contact your water utility, municipality or a licensed plumber. Flush your cold water taps and toilets to clear the water. Wait for an hour and try again if it still hasn’t cleared. If the discolouration persists, get in touch with your water utility or municipality.

For milky or white water you must “fill a clear glass with water and set it on the counter. If the water starts to clear at the bottom of the glass first, the cloudy or white appearance is trapped air. If you have your own well or borehole, the pumping system may be causing this issue. You may need a qualified contractor or plumber to determine how to correct it.”