Discoloured tap water can look alarming—but the cause is often simpler than you think. Here’s how to identify the problem and know when to take action.
Sometimes the water in the Clonskeagh area may change colour for a short time.
This usually happens when maintenance work is being carried out on the water supply in South Dublin.
Brown or Orange Water
Some water pipes in Dublin are very old. Some are made of cast iron and can be up to 100 years old.
Over time, small amounts of sediment can build up inside these pipes. When water flows through the pipes, or when maintenance work is carried out, the sediment can be disturbed.
This can make the water look brown or orange.
What to do
- Turn on the cold tap in your kitchen and
- Let the water run for a few minutes.
This will usually flush out the sediment and clear the water.
If the brown or orange sediment does not clear after several minutes:
- Contact Uisce Éireann on Freephone 1800 278 278.
- Do not drink the water until it has been checked.
Cloudy or White Water
Cloudy or white water is usually caused by:
- Air bubbles in the water, or
- Limescale from hard water.
What to do
- Fill a clear glass with cold water from your kitchen tap
- Leave it to stand for a few minutes and
- Watch how the water clears.
What the result means:
- If the water clears from the bottom upwards, it is caused by air bubbles.
- If the water clears from the top downwards, it is caused by limescale.
If the water becomes clear after a few minutes, it is safe to drink.
If it does not clear, contact Uisce Éireann on Freephone 1800 278 278.
Black Water or Black Specks
Black water or black specks can have different causes:
- Water Filter Jug: A water filter jug may release small black particles into the water. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for your filter jug.
- Worn Tap Washer: An old tap washer can break down over time. You may be able to feel the black particles between your fingers. Check whether the tap washer needs to be replaced.
- Manganese in the water: This natural mineral may be found in some water sources. Water treatment plants remove most manganese, but small amounts can occasionally remain. This makes the water look black or grey and gives it an unpleasant taste.
What to do about manganese
- Turn on the cold tap in your kitchen and
- Let the water run for several minutes to flush out the blackish water.
This will often clear the problem.
If the water does not clear:
- Contact Uisce Éireann on Freephone 1800 278 278 and
- Do not drink the water until it has been checked by Uisce Éireann.