On October 17th we experienced two simultaneous water main breaks which affected many of our customers. After repairs were maid and service restored, many customers had questions about discolored water or air in their lines.
Discolored water and trapped air are common occurrences after a main break has been repaired. Discolored water is caused by sediment, sand or rust in the pipes that is stirred up with the water is turned off, and then back on. Don’t use discolored water to prepare food, drink, or do laundry. Air enters the water system as the pipes are repaired and may move to your home’s water pipes.
Once Service has been restored, flush the water in your pipes. Begin by turning on all cold-water faucets, starting at the highest point in your home and working your way down to the lowest. Let the water run for a few minutes, until the water runs clear, then turn the faucets off in the same order, highest to lowest. During this process you may also hear a hissing or crackling sound as trapped air is released. If your refrigerator has chilled water and an ice maker, flush the refrigerator’s water line (typically about 1 pitcher full) and dispose of any ice in the maker and bin. Run your washing machine empty, using a water-only cycle to clear sediment or rust in the supply line and help prevent staining of clothes.