Discoloured Water FAQ

Checking your Water Quality

If you notice a water quality issue with your drinking water, you can check whether it’s coming from the main water supply or from internal plumbing:

1. Run the tap at the front garden for a few minutes.
2. Compare this water to the water inside your home.

• If the garden tap water is clear, the mains supply is fine and the problem:
  • is likely due to your inside plumbing and you may need to contact a licensed plumber, or
  • the water quality in the main did have an issue but has now cleared.
• If the garden tap water is also discoloured or unusual, consider running the tap for 5–10 minutes to see if the water clears. If it doesn’t clear, contact AlburyCity to report a water quality issue.

Hardness and my dishwasher

Knowing the hardness of your water is often important when setting up appliances like dishwashers, as it can affect performance and longevity.

Hardness measures the combined amount of calcium and magnesium salts in your water and is expressed as calcium carbonate.

Albury’s water has a hardness of approximately 50 mg/L calcium carbonate, which is classified as soft water according to the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (Paper 6). Water with a hardness of less than 60 mg/L calcium carbonate is considered soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I have discoloured or dirty water?

AlburyCity understands that some residents occasionally experience brownish or discoloured tap water, particularly during warmer periods when water demand is higher. There can be several reasons for dirty or discoloured water.

1. Disturbed sediments in the mains

   Sometimes water may appear brown or muddy when there is a sudden increase or change in water flow, disturbing sediments that have settled over time. This can be caused by burst mains, maintenance works, or operating valves that change flow direction.

   These sediments are made up of natural organic matter and are harmless. Discolouration is usually short-lived and more likely during spring and summer when demand is higher.

2. Naturally occurring minerals

   Iron and manganese occur naturally in Albury’s raw water supply and can oxidise when exposed to chlorine, causing a brown or black tint and potential staining.

   AlburyCity’s water treatment process removes most of these minerals before water enters the supply.

3. Maintenance or flushing

   Work on pipes or reservoirs can temporarily disturb sediments and discolour water.

4. Seasonal and environmental factors

   Changes in temperature, water demand, or dam layering can make discolouration more noticeable.

5. What can I do in the meantime?

• Flush your taps: Run an outside tap for around 5 minutes or until the water clears (approximately 21 cents in water).
• If the water does not clear, contact AlburyCity so we can investigate or arrange a local flush.
• If you rely on water for medical reasons or have specific needs, please reach out — we’re here to help.

Contact Customer Service: 02 6023 8111

Why does my water look cloudy, milky or white?

Cloudy or milky water is usually caused by tiny air bubbles introduced during repairs or maintenance. The air is harmless and will clear naturally.

To check if air is the cause:

1. Fill a clear glass with tap water.
2. Let it sit for a few minutes.

The water will clear from the bottom up as air bubbles escape.

Why do I have orange or brown water?

Orange or brown water is usually caused by iron or rust from older pipes or water mains. While unpleasant, it is not harmful.

• Rust discolouration is usually short-lived.
• Do not wash clothes while water is rusty, as staining may occur.
• Once clear, flush hot and cold taps to prevent build-up.

Why is my basin stained blue or green?

Blue or green stains usually indicate copper corrosion in household plumbing.

If the water itself appears blue or green, it should not be consumed.

Tips to reduce exposure:

• Run taps for about 30 seconds before use.
• Seek advice from a licensed plumber if the problem persists.

Why is there pink staining in my bathroom?

Pink staining is caused by common bacteria or moulds that grow in moist environments.

Regular cleaning and disinfecting of affected surfaces will control staining.

Why does my water taste or smell musty?

Earthy or musty flavours are caused by natural compounds such as geosmin and MIB, produced by algae or bacteria in source water.

• They can be detected at extremely low concentrations.
• They are harmless and have no known health effects.

Why does my water taste or smell like chlorine?

Chlorine is used to disinfect drinking water and keep it safe. If noticeable, letting water stand in the fridge for 12–24 hours allows chlorine to dissipate naturally.

Can chlorine cause skin irritation?

Some people may be sensitive to chlorine, even though levels are within Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.

• Use a household water filter designed to remove chlorine.
• Store tap water in the fridge for 12–24 hours.
• Seek medical advice if symptoms persist.

Why do I have reduced flow or particles in my tap aerator?

Reduced flow is often caused by clogged aerators or deteriorating hot water system components.

• Clean tap aerators and showerheads.
• Flush the system after cleaning.
• Contact a licensed plumber if issues persist.

Why do I have black particles in my water?

Black particles usually come from deteriorating rubber components such as washers or O-rings.

• Flush taps for several minutes.
• Replace fittings or consult a plumber if the issue continues.

Is fluoride added to my drinking water?

Yes. Fluoride is added at 1 mg/L in line with NHMRC guidelines and NSW legislation to support dental health.

Where can I get my water tested?

The Albury City Council Waterview Laboratory offers public water testing services.

Waterview Laboratory
85 Laboratory Lane, Splitters Creek (Albury)
Phone: (02) 6043 5650

Why do I have a bitter taste in hot drinks?

A bitter or metallic taste often comes from scale build-up in kettles or urns.

1. Mix citric acid or vinegar with water.
2. Boil for about 3 minutes.
3. Rinse thoroughly three times.

This removes scale and improves taste.

Further information

Call our water quality team on 1300 361 622 for further information.