Property Manager Chronicles: Brown Water 101

Anne Darer • February 17, 2021

Ever wonder why your water may come out brown at times?

There are two major sources that can cause water to be brown or rusty: water mains, or the water pipes in your building. The rust can be disturbed and temporarily suspended in water due to water main breaks, flushing out a hydrant, or maintenance in the street or in the building. This discolored water is not a health threat and the best solution is to run the lines until the water runs clear

You can file a report with 311 that will be routed to the Department of Environmental Protection to find out if there is work being done in the street. You should check with your property maintenance team if there is work being done in the building.

Persistent brown or discolored water can also be an indicator that the hot water tank is failing. Other symptoms of a failing hot water heater are

· The brown water is apparent only when you run hot water

· You only have cold water.

· Your water gets warm, but never hot.

· Your water heater makes a rumbling noise.

· Your water has a metallic smell or taste.

· Water is leaking around your water heater.

If you are noticing brown or discolored water, do not be alarmed. Brown water happens! It is generally not dangerous and resolves itself by letting the water run. If you are noticing discolored water do:

1) Keep a record of the brown water and work identify if the issue is at the street or in the building.

2) Notify your Brownstone property manager so that the building can be looked at holistically and make sure it is not a symptom of equipment failure.

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