Quick Answer:

If water runs brown or cloudy only after recent pipe disturbance, it’s most likely loose rust or sediment from the work. Stop using the water for drinking, run cold water from a large outlet like a tub spout to flush the line, and avoid aerators and filters until the water clears. If the problem persists or you see leaks or smell sewage, call a plumber.

Why This Happens

• Pipe work disturbs rust, scale, or mineral deposits inside mains or house piping. Those particles can flow out as brown or cloudy water.
• Pressure changes during repairs can dislodge sediment that normally sits in low spots or older pipes.
• Work on a nearby main can introduce dirt or iron into the system temporarily.

Step-by-Step What to Do

1. Stop using the affected water for drinking or cooking

Don’t use discolored water for anything you might ingest until it’s clear. Use bottled water for drinking and food prep if needed.

2. Flush through a tub spout first

Open a cold tub spout (not a faucet with an aerator) and run a steady flow for 5–15 minutes or until the water clears. A tub spout has a higher flow and no aerator, so it helps push out sediment faster.

3. Check other fixtures and the hot water

• Test several cold-water taps in the house. If only one fixture is brown, the problem is local to that branch.
• Run the hot water a little to see if the heater has sediment, but avoid long hot-water runs if you’re unsure. If only hot water is discolored, the water heater may need attention.

4. Avoid aerators, filters and sprinklers until clear

Do not install or use faucet aerators, inline filters, or run irrigation systems until the lines are flushing clear. Aerators and filters trap particles and can clog or become contaminated; remove them temporarily and clean them before reuse.

5. Watch for other signs

• Look for leaks, reduced pressure, or any new sounds after the work.
• If water does not clear after prolonged flushing, or if pressure behaves oddly, treat it as a persistent issue.

If you see leaks appearing later, read about Leaks starting days after repair. If the system will not settle back after you shut it off and turn it on, check System won’t repressurize after shutoff for guidance.

What Not to Do

• Don’t drink discolored water.
• Don’t use aerators or inline filters until the water is clear — they can trap debris and make the problem worse.
• Don’t ignore persistent discoloration or a sewage smell; those can indicate a more serious issue.

When to Call a Professional

• Discoloration persists after 15–30 minutes of flushing from a large outlet.
• There are new leaks, sudden pressure loss, or repeated cloudy/brown water returns.
• You notice a sewage or chemical odor, or the hot water is the only source of discoloration and flushing doesn’t help.

Safety Notes

• Do not ingest discolored water. Use bottled water for drinking, cooking, and making ice until the supply is clear.
• Avoid bathing infants and small children in heavily discolored water; use clear water sources instead.
• If you suspect contamination beyond rust (strong odor, oily sheen, or dark particles), stop using the water and call your water supplier or a licensed plumber before continuing.

Common Homeowner Questions

• Why is the water brown only sometimes? — Sediment moves with pressure changes and may appear intermittently after work or during high flow.
• How long will it take to clear? — Usually a few minutes to a few hours of flushing; rarely longer if the main needs flushing by the utility.
• Is it safe to wash clothes in discolored water? — Not until clear; minerals and rust can stain fabrics and may require repeat washing.