If water looks red, brown or yellow

It's probably caused by

• Hydrant flushing or firefighting activity
• These activities increase water flow and disturbs mineral deposits in iron pipes

The water is safe to drink

You should not

• Use hot water because sediment will collect in the hot water tank.
• Do laundry because the iron can stain clothing.

Water should clear in a few hours

• Check it hourly by running the cold water tap located in the lowest point in your home. Run it for two to three minutes each time.
• Once the water runs clear, flush the pipes in your home by running all cold water taps for a few minutes.
• If it doesn't clear in a few hours, call 311

If water looks cloudy or milky

It's probably caused by

• Tiny air bubbles in the water
• In response to a change in water pressure or temperature
• Common in the fall and spring

Water should clear in a few minutes

• Fill a glass with water and let it sit for a few minutes
• The bubbles should rise to the top and cloudiness disappear
• If it doesn't clear in a few minutes, call 311

If water smells or tastes bad

It's probably caused by

• Unsanitary sink plumbing, garbage disposal, or nozzle screen on the sink spout — not by the water itself. 

Take these steps to determine the problem

• Check the s-shaped pipe under your sink — it is especially prone to collecting debris.
• Run the faucet with the drain closed to see if the water still smells.
• Fill a glass halfway with tap water and smell the water in a separate room
• Check the water coming out of other taps in your house to see if they have the same problem.

If it's not a plumbing problem and the odor persists for more than a day

• Call 311
• We will ask:
  • Is the taste or odor occurring at all faucets?
  • When was the taste or odor first detected?
  • Is the taste or odor in the hot or cold water, or both? 
  • How would you describe the taste or odor (e.g. earthy, musty, grassy)?
  • Do neighbors have the same problem?