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Most Common Cause: The most common cause of yellow/orange/rusty red water is dissolved iron. Typically found in homes built before the 1960s, galvanized (iron) piping can rust on the inside which causes the water to flow yellow/orange/rusty red. Recommended Action: Turn on all the taps. The water should run clear within a few seconds, but could take up to five (5) minutes. If this result is experienced, no further action is needed. We also recommend not washing clothes during yellow, orange or rusty red water events as it may cause staining. No health/safety concerns and water use can continue as normal. Over time, sediments accumulate in the water heater. As a best practice, it is recommended the water heater be flushed every six (6) to 12 months. Please contact a plumbing expert to have it flushed.
Example of rusty water. |
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Common Cause In some sections of the city, older cast-iron water mains are still part of the distribution system carrying water to the home. When rust in the mains is disturbed by nearby construction, or there are changes in flow or pressure, discolored water can result. Yellow/orange/rusty red water instances such as these typically don’t last longer than 12-24 hours. Recommended Action: Turn on all the taps. The water should run clear within a few seconds, but could take up to five (5) minutes. If this result is experienced, no further action is needed. Check for ongoing work in the area which could be the cause of this issue (View Outage Map). We also recommend not washing clothes during yellow, orange or rusty red water events as it may cause staining. No health/safety concerns and water use can continue as normal. |
After taking the above listed actions, if the concern was not resolved, please open a case to be contacted by a Customer Case Manager.
