Brown water

Tap water should be clear and fresh. That is what we are committed to every day. Brown water sometimes contains rust or iron. A slightly higher concentration of iron is not harmful to health, but it can be inconvenient and has, of course, an unpleasant taste.

Why does water sometimes contain rust particles?

Water can naturally contain iron, depending on its source. In addition, certain substances may build up in the pipework. This occurs mainly with cast iron and steel pipes, but sometimes in PVC pipes as well.

Under normal or slow flow conditions and normal pressure, these substances settle at the bottom of the pipes. At higher flow speeds or when the flow direction changes suddenly, the sediment can be stirred up:

• during works or flushing of the pipes

• during high water consumption in the area

• when the fire department tests hydrants or carries out firefighting operations

• when a contractor fills a reservoir for a large construction site.

Drinking water customers drawing water immediately afterwards may experience discolouration.

If the discolouration of the water is limited to a single customer, the cause may be cast-iron or steel internal pipes.

If this only happens after a long absence, let the water run for a while until the discolouration disappears.