The Town of Amherst, Nova Scotia has started its yearly water main flushing, a maintenance routine that will affect water color and pressure across the community for about five weeks. The work, led by the Amherst Water Utility, began on Monday, June 8, and is meant to clear sediment from the distribution system to keep drinking water clean.
While the flushing is happening, residents may see cloudy or brown water coming from their taps, along with moments of low pressure. The discoloration comes from natural minerals like iron and calcium that get stirred up inside the pipes. Despite its appearance, the utility and other water authorities say the water is safe to drink, with no health risk from the sediment.
To clear up the water at home, the town advises people to run their cold water tap—not hot water—for five to ten minutes, or until it turns clear. This pushes any loosened sediment out of household plumbing. Running hot water could pull the discolored water into the hot water tank, making the problem last longer.
The flushing program runs from June 8 through about mid-July, covering the entire town. Anyone with questions can reach Town Hall at 902-667-3352 during weekday office hours, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For after-hours emergencies related to public works, residents should call the Amherst Police Dispatch at 902-667-8600.
