Despite being of a high standard, drinking water, including bottled water, may contain small amounts of substances such as naturally occurring minerals, fine particles, dissolved compounds and low levels of microbes. The water can still be suitable for human consumption and readily meet drinking water standards or guidelines, as is the case with our drinking water supply.

In line with experiences of water companies throughout the world, Western Water receives feedback from customers who require information or have concerns with regard to the quality of their water supply. Although the issues can often be addressed over the phone, we are pleased to deal with instances which require further communication.

Most of the water quality concerns reported by customers can be grouped into categories such as discoloured water, taste and/or odour and staining.

Discoloured Water
Discoloured water can be due to a number of different factors. Sometimes when there is an increase or a change in the flow of water through the mains, sediment that has settled within the lines may become stirred up and pushed through the system. This most commonly occurs when there has been a water main break and the water has been shut-off for repairs.

Discoloured water may also be caused by fine iron and manganese particles which can occur in areas where water supply is sourced from ground-water bores.

Customers may also at times experience white water due to air in the mains after work has been done. Click here for more information about what you can do if you have sediment in your water.

Taste and Odour
Taste and odour in drinking water can occur occasionally and is generally apparent as a chlorine-like or earthy-musty taste or odour. Western Water is conscious of customers' awareness of the presence of chlorine in the supply and keeps chlorine dosing levels to a minimum. However, fluctuations in chlorine levels can occur from time to time, largely due to changes in water demands and flow rates. For drinking purposes, the level of chlorine can be largely reduced by placing the water in an open container and allowing it to stand for a couple of hours.

Earthy-musty taste and odours can occur in areas where water flows are slower due to reduced consumption.

Click here to find out if there are currently any reported variations to the water quality in your area.

Staining
Staining of fittings such as sinks and shower bases is usually brown, black or red and is usually related to discoloured water or elevated iron (red) and manganese (black) levels in the water. Staining of washing can be caused by the presence of sediments in water mains or rust from older, internal galvanised-iron pipes. A call to Western Water will assist in identifying the cause. Sediments in water mains are cleared by Western Water arranging for the local water main to be flushed. Where the staining is caused by rust from internal pipes, the householder can attempt to manage the problem by selective flushing of internal taps or seeking advice from a plumber.

If you have water quality concerns, please contact the Water Systems Team on 03 9218 5400 during normal buisness hours.