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  3. Dirty water after an outage

Here's what to do if you have dirty water:

  • Run the outside tap closest to your water meter until the water runs clear (for up to five minutes of flushing).
  • Run the outside tap at the back of your property until the water is clear (for up to five minutes of flushing).
  • Contact us if the water does not clear after flushing.

The water is safe to consume, but we recommend you let the water run clear before you drink or bathe in it. If there is ever any health risk in the water supply, Unitywater will notify the public immediately. 

Dirty water may have been caused by an outage in the area.
Check for current or recent outages

Helpful tips while your water is dirty:

  • Don't do any washing or use your dishwasher or washing machine until the discolouration clears.
  • Make sure your water is completely clear before using any hot water, as dirty water can affect your hot water system.
  • Running a tap for 5 minutes to clear your water uses on average 75 litres of water, which costs about 30 cents. 
  • Prevent wasting water by catching it in a bucket to use on your plants or garden.

 1. Dirty water running from tap into a bucket to clear pipes

2. Moderately dirty water running from tap into bucket to clear pipes

3. Clear water running from tap into bucket to clear pipes after water outage

After 5 minutes of flushing your water from your outside tap, the water should run clear. If you are still getting dirty water, please call us on 1300 086 489.

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