Why is my water rust/tea-colored from the hydrant flushing? Is the water safe?
Sometimes hydrant flushing can make the water temporarily appear rust-colored because the iron and mineral deposits in the water get stirred up. Water is safe to use and consume during hydrant flushing, however, it may stain laundry.
The main component of the discoloration of the water during hydrant flushing is caused by iron deposits from inside the water mains. The source of the iron is naturally occurring from groundwater wells and deposits in the ductile iron pipe that makes up the underground water system.
Does the City test the water regularly? Is the testing done at various sites?
The City of Peru like all other cities is required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency to test the water in the system at various times throughout the year according to mandated parameters. The results of these tests are outlined in the annual Water Quality Report. (The report is sometimes called the Consumer Confidence Report.) Past reports show the City complies with all the required testing parameters.
Although the water is discolored during hydrant flushing and may look unclear or tinted, the water is not harmful or contaminated. To ensure the highest possible quality of water and in accordance with regulations, the City’s Water Department collects samples from many separate collection points every month from areas all over of the water system. This sampling takes place even during hydrant flushing operations. These samples are then analyzed for bacteriological contamination. Historically the City of Peru has been in total compliance with these samples, which means there are no bacteria in the water.
I live on the west side and the City is flushing hydrants on the east side. Why is my water discolored?
Sometimes residents who live beyond the limits of the area where hydrant flushing is being performed will notice rust-colored water. We assure you that the Water Department is making every attempt to keep these impacts to a minimum while continuing to maintain safe drinking water.
How come my water is discolored, but my neighbor didn’t notice any discoloration?
If you were home when the flushing was going on and you turned on your water, your water may be discolored because you are drawing in the water as the city’s system is flushing it and stirring up the minerals and iron.
If your neighbors were not home all-day, returned home in the evening, and turned on their tap when no flushing was occurring, they most likely will not notice any discoloration.
My water is discolored. What should I do?
Wait until flushing has subsided in your area then run the cold-water tap until the water runs clear.
If you have a water softener and are experiencing discolored water, place the unit into regeneration or cleaning mode after hydrant flushing is completed in your area.
Remember rust-colored water is safe, but it may stain laundry. If this happens, keep clothes wet and treat them with stain remover.
The city of Peru provides resident free stain remover product that is available at the office of the city clerk at the Peru Municipal Building, 1901 4th Street.
Tips for Minimizing Water Discoloration during Hydrant Flushing Operations
- If possible, limit your water use.
- Wait until flushing has subsided in your area then run the cold-water tap until the water runs clear.
- If you have a water softener and are experiencing discolored water, place the unit into regeneration or cleaning mode after hydrant flushing is completed in your area.
- Remember rust-colored water is safe, but it may stain laundry. If this happens, keep clothes wet and treat them with stain remover.
The city of Peru provides resident free stain remover product that is available at the office of the city clerk at the Peru Municipal Building, 1901 4th Street.
