My water looks, tastes and smells unusual

Why does this happen?

A sudden increase in the rate or direction of water flow through pipes can stir up sediment.

This can happen during planned maintenance on the water supply network or during emergency repairs to fix a fault in the network. Our field crews flush water mains when works/repairs are completed to lessen the likelihood of dirty water occurring.

If the water is running clear at your front tap near the water meter and is dirty inside your home, corrosion of the pipes in your internal plumbing could also be a cause.

What to do:

• Check the outages map to see if there are any works or emergencies near you.
• Run the outside tap closest to your water meter until the water runs clear (for up to five to ten minutes of flushing).
• Run the outside tap at the back of your property until the water is clear (for up to five to ten minutes of flushing).
• Contact us if the water does not clear after flushing.
• If you have dirty water, avoid using the dishwasher or washing machine until the issue is fixed as this can cause discoloured clothes. If you do experience discoloured clothes, please complete the discoloured laundry claim form.

Why does this happen?

Air trapped inside pressurised water pipes converts to tiny air bubbles.

This gives water a white or milky appearance. This can happen during planned maintenance on the water supply network or during emergency repairs to fix a fault in the network. Our crews flush water mains when works/repairs are completed.

What to do:

• Check the outages map to see if there are any works or emergencies near you.
• Fill a glass, jug or container with water and allow it to sit for 10 minutes. It should be clear after settling, as the bubbles rise to the top and escape.
• Contact us if the water does not clear.

Why does this happen?

Chlorine is added to the drinking water supply to maintain disinfection. Sometimes you may be able to taste or smell it.

What to do:

• Fill a jug, glass or container with tap water and let it stand overnight. This should allow any residual chlorine to dissipate.
• Add freshly squeezed lemon juice to the water. Lemon juice contains ascorbic acid which can neutralise chlorine and enhance the taste of the water.
• If the odour is very strong or has appeared suddenly, please contact us to report it.

Why does this happen?

Occasionally, naturally occurring organisms from our dams can cause earthy or musty tastes and odours. When this occurs, the entire water supply may be impacted and flushing will not be effective. See the Geosmin and MIB page for more information.

Earthy or musty taste and odours can also be caused by buildup of sediment and organic matter in our network or in the interior plumbing at your property. In these instances flushing may be effective.

What to do:

• You can run the tap for a few minutes to flush stagnant water in your plumbing

• Please contact us for assistance if you continue to experience unpleasant tastes or odours after flushing.

Why does this happen?

A metallic taste in your tap water usually indicates that iron or copper may be present. This is usually caused by corrosion of household copper plumbing. Copper corrosion can cause blue green staining in basins, sinks, showers and toilet bowls.

It may also occur in new houses with new copper pipes. It will reduce over time.

What to do:

• In the short term, flush the affected tap for two minutes. This clears the water in affected pipes. In the long term, contact a licensed plumber to inspect your pipes for corrosion and replace them if required.
• To treat the staining, use a lemon-based product which contains citric acid.

Why does this happen?

Household plastic pipes laid underground can absorb a petroleum-based hydrocarbon product it has leaked or been sprayed on the ground near the pipes.

What to do:

• Please ensure chemicals (e.g. paints, solvents, petrol, kerosene) are used and disposed of properly.
• If these chemicals go into the soil, you will need to dig up and dispose of the affected soil near the pipes.

In the instance that you are feeling unwell or are unwell as a result of drinking our water supply you should contact us immediately.

Our staff will respond to your notification as quickly as possible.