Following essential work to upgrade one of the main pressure management valves for Portsea Island, we are aware that some people in the area are currently experiencing discoloured or cloudy water.
If you have been affected, we would like to reassure you that the water remains safe to use, even if it appears discoloured or cloudy.
Our team has been doing essential work overnight to upgrade one of the main pressure management valves for Portsea Island. Though this process was tightly managed, our work on the valve has disturbed sediment in the pipes, which can make water discoloured or cloudy. We’re really sorry for any inconvenience this causes. We’re working on getting it sorted as soon as we can.
The water should be back to normal within 24 hours.
If your water supply has been affected and you have noticed discolouration, you can find more information below.
Reasons for cloudy or discoloured water
Discoloured water (iron)
Over time, natural iron sediments can build up inside water pipes and supply lines. Occasionally this can be disturbed when essential maintenance work is carried out.
Is iron harmful?
Although we appreciate the water might not look very pleasant, aren't harmful and pose no risk.
What are the standards for iron in water?
The UK standard for iron is 200 parts per billion (ug/l). This is set to prevent any potential discolouration of the water in the mains and is not based on any concern for health.
If you have discoloured water please don’t do any laundry until the water is clear as this may result in staining. If staining occurs keep the items damp until the discoloured water is gone and then re-wash using a washing powder.
Cloudy water (Air)
Cloudy water can be because of lots of air bubbles in the water, which are so small it makes the water appear white. To check if the white water is due to air, fill a glass with water and leave it to stand for a few minutes. The cloudiness should clear from the bottom of the glass upwards. Although it doesn't look great, the air in the water is not harmful.
Cloudy water (Aluminium)
If the water doesn’t clear, the cloudiness may be due to the presence of aluminium. Aluminium salts are used at some treatment plants to purify the water. It’s an important step in removing particles, including harmful bacteria and other harmful micro-organisms.
Is aluminium harmful?
There is no proven health risk with the presence of aluminium. This has been endorsed by a World Health Organisation report. Aluminium is one of the most common elements in the earth’s crust and is naturally present in many food products, as well as drinking water. One of the most common sources is tea – which has up to 200 times more aluminium than the water it's made with.
What are the standards for aluminium in water?
The UK standard for aluminium is 200 parts per billion (ug/l). This is set to prevent any potential discolouration of the water in the mains and is not based on any concern for health.
The discolouration should clear up within 24 hours. If it doesn’t, please contact [email protected] or call 023 9249 9666.
Want to find out more?
You can keep up to date with service supplies through our live updates below, and find out more about what to do if you experience discoloured or cloudy water with our Water Quality Information guides.
