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Discoloured Tap Water or Reduced Water Pressure?

Discoloured Tap Water or Reduced Water Pressure?

We’re proud to help provide safe and reliable drinking water in the City of Kingston. When Utilities Kingston’s certified water distribution operators work on underground infrastructure, it can disrupt water service.  We do our best to minimize disruption and provide advance notice directly to our customers, but sometimes in unforeseen circumstances (such as emergency water main breaks) it’s not possible.

Effects on water services can include temporary reduced water pressure (or no water), as well as brown or discoloured tap water. The latter occurs because activities on the water distribution system can disturb deposits that normally occur in water pipes.

If you notice your tap water is brown or discoloured, please be assured the water is still safe. Flush your pipes until the water is clear again.

  1. Locate the cold water tap that is closest to your water meter.
  2. Run the cold water until it is clear. This may take 5 – 25 minutes.
  3. If the water does not clear, please contact Utilities Kingston at 613-546-1181.

If you have questions or concerns about your water service, please call our 24-hour line at 613-546-1181 and we’ll be glad to assist.

Learn more about one element of water distribution: fire hydrant inspection and flow rating.