United Utilities have warned that tap water in Liverpool may 'change colour' as they make changes in the Merseyside region.
Residents of Knowsley were contacted by email to make them aware that the North West water company would soon be carrying out some night time work on the water pipes in the area. The work is set to take place from Sunday, May 1 and Friday, May 6 2022, from 11pm until 5.30am.
In an email sent to local residents, United Utilities said: "We wanted to let you know about work we’re carrying out to refresh the water pipes in your area – so we can continue to provide high quality water to your home or business. It’s part of a programme taking place across the North West region to help remove natural mineral deposits, keep the pipes in tip-top condition and make sure the water that’s delivered to you remains above our expected standards."
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The work will involve opening fire hydrants at specific locations across the region and controlling the release of water to flush out and remove natural sediment. United Utilities said: "We won’t need to turn off your water and we carry out the work during the night to cause as little disruption as possible. In most instances you may not even notice we’re there, but of course our team will do all they can to minimise any noise and make sure your water supply is unaffected."
They went on to explain that customers may notice a change in the colour of their tap water. The company explained this as it said: "During the work you may find that your tap water temporarily reduces in pressure or, after the work takes place may appear a little discoloured. We do understand discoloured water can look unpleasant and want to reassure you that our work would only impact your property for a short amount of time as our team progresses through the area. This is nothing to worry about and any discolouration will quickly return to normal. We’re sorry if you do experience any changes to the colour of your water."
Why has my water changed colour?
Discolouration can range from a light, straw-yellow colour to a dark brown. Drinking water can sometimes appear ‘milky’ or ‘cloudy’ when first drawn from the tap. This is caused by tiny air bubbles which usually disappears after leaving the glass of water to stand for a few minutes. White water can be more obvious after a burst water main or maintenance activities that are carried out on our water distribution network.
As well as noticing the changes to the appearance of your water, you may also hear banging coming from your internal plumbing or that the water is ‘frothy’ or splutters when the tap is opened. Occasionally frothy water may dislodge deposits that have collected on the inside of pipes, but this is nothing to worry about and should clear as the water is used.
Cloudy water which clears after being left to stand for a few minutes has been caused by tiny air bubbles in the water and is not harmful to your health. However, if your water is blue, pink or green, please make sure you don't drink or use your water for cooking.
What to do to make water clear again?
While your tap water is discoloured, we advise you not to run the hot water tap, use dishwashers, washing machines or any other appliances which uses your hot water supply. You can try clearing the discolouration from your water by following the steps below:
- Allow the first incoming cold water tap (usually in the kitchen) to run at a trickle until it clears.
- Some discolouration can clear quickly (within minutes), but this can take longer depending on the cause.
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