Water shutdowns and maintenance

The experience of “dirty water” is due to the presence of very minute amounts of soluble compounds of iron and manganese that gradually build up as a coating on the pipe wall.  When the normal flow of water is disrupted for any reason – such as during a maintenance shutdown, a sudden break in the pipeline, or use of the street fire hydrant - the iron and manganese is re-suspended in the water, causing a brown discoloration.

The water is still completely safe even though its appearance might suggest otherwise.

Usually the discoloration will gradually clear of its own accord, but in severe instances Veolia Water may need to assist residents by flushing the mains in the street to restore clear water.  

Please contact our Customer Services team on 07 868 0200 if you are having such problems – we will contact our contractor to assist.

The stains are due to the iron and manganese - refer to above.  We recommend that the clothes are kept damp until they can be rewashed when the water clears.

During re-filling of the water main after repairs or maintenance some air may be trapped.  This is dissolved in the water under pressure and when released forms fine bubbles of air.  This is the white colour that is seen.  Leave some water standing in a clear glass and the white colour should disappear after a short time. 

This may be due to air trapped in the pipe under pressure, which expands suddenly when the tap is turned on.  The solution is to leave several cold water taps just cracked on slightly, allowing the trapped air to be safely bled from the line.  If the problem persists, call our Customer Services team on 07 868 0200 or your plumber.

First check your household appliances.  Something as simple as a washer on the kettle that has deteriorated can cause an unpleasant taste. Veolia Water may need to flush the street mains on some quieter streets or check for a valve inadvertently left turned off.  Sometimes you may need to seek help from your plumber if normal checks and remedies do not clear the problem.  If you are new to the district, you may just need to take time to get accustomed to the different taste.