Why is my water sometimes rusty?
Rusty, yellow water comes from mineral deposits stirred up during hydrant flushing, fire-fighting, line breaks or maintenance. The local fire department lists scheduled hydrant flushing in the newspaper. Try not to use water during these times to avoid pulling deposits into your home's plumbing.

Rusty water will generally clear up within 2-3 hours after the line is repaired or hydrant closed. You will need to run your cold water for several minutes to flush the rusty water from the lines in your house. Try not to run the hot water because that can deposit rust in your hot water tank.

If your laundry gets stained by rusty water, keep it moist. Buy a rust remover and follow the directions on the package.

Show All Answers

1. How do I report a water problem, like a leak, sewer backup or drinking water quality issue?
2. How do I get information about water quality?
3. Why is there chlorine in the water?
4. How do I decrease the amount of chlorine in my water (for fish tanks, plant watering, etc.)?
5. Is there is lead in my water?
6. Is there mercury in my water?
7. Why is there fluoride in the water?
8. What is the pH level of City of Tybee Island’s water?
9. If my water has an odor, what should I do?
10. Why is my water sometimes rusty?
11. Why does my water look cloudy?
12. Why are there particles floating in my water?
13. Why is there a pink or black ring in my toilet?
14. What causes pinhole leaks?
15. Is bottled water safer than tap water?
16. Where can I find more information?