News Summary
The city of Aiken has hired the firm DCCM to investigate the ongoing discolored water issues affecting thousands of residents. This action follows numerous complaints that began in late June. City officials expect a report by September 1, to determine whether the issue is isolated or systemic. Contributing factors may include a new valve installation and high water demand. Meanwhile, unidirectional flushing is set to start on July 21 to improve water quality. Residents are urged to report discolored water, which remains safe for consumption despite appearance.
Aiken, S.C. Hires Consultant to Investigate Discolored Water Issues Affecting Thousands of Residents
The city of Aiken has contracted the consulting firm DCCM to investigate ongoing issues with discolored water and sediment affecting several thousand residents. This decision follows numerous reports of discolored water beginning on June 24, prompting immediate action from city officials.
City Manager Stuart Bedenbaugh has indicated that DCCM is expected to deliver a comprehensive report by September 1. The consulting firm will assess whether the discoloration incident is an isolated occurrence or indicative of a more systemic issue within the city’s water supply. Currently, approximately 22,000 customers are served by Aiken’s water system, and the discolored water issue has impacted a significant portion of these residents.
Several factors may have contributed to the discoloration. Initial assessments suggest the problem could arise from the installation of a new valve on the water main at the city’s latest water treatment facility. This installation may have inadvertently introduced sediment into the system. Additionally, high-velocity water flow, resulting from elevated water demand during the recent hot weather, may have scoured the interiors of existing cast iron pipes, stirring up sediment and leading to color changes in the water.
DCCM’s findings will be communicated to the public through a technical bulletin, as well as a layperson’s summary, making the information accessible to all residents.
Bedenbaugh emphasized the importance of this investigation, noting that the city “did not meet [its] standards” for water service during the affected period from June 24 to June 30. In response to the complaints, city officials initiated measures to rectify the issue. This included opening multiple fire hydrants to help expel discolored water from the system.
To further address the water quality concern, the city plans to commence “unidirectional flushing” of older sections of the water system starting on July 21. This cleansing process is anticipated to last for approximately three weeks, concluding on August 8. Unidirectional flushing involves directing water flow in a single direction at high velocities to clean water mains of mineral deposits, biofilm, and sediment. Although this process will enhance water quality, residents may temporarily experience fluctuations in water pressure and occasional discoloration while the flushing is underway.
In light of the discoloration issues, residents have been advised to report any instances of discolored water through the city’s website or by calling the city’s water service line at 803-642-7629. It is important to note that while the water may appear discolored, it remains safe for consumption. However, residents are cautioned against using discolored water for activities such as washing clothes, as it may lead to staining and other problems.
In the midst of this water crisis, local emergency services also responded to an unrelated incident involving a barricaded person threatening suicide at an apartment complex on Alexander Drive. This incident underscores the wide range of issues that city officials must address while also handling ongoing concerns related to the water quality in Aiken.
The city of Aiken is committed to resolving the water quality issues impacting its community and aims to restore confidence in the safety and clarity of its drinking water.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Aiken Consults Firm to Investigate Discolored Water
- Post and Courier: Aiken Discolored Water Consultant Hired
- WJBF: Reports of Discolored Water in Aiken
- Wikipedia: Water Quality
- WFXG: Aiken Continues Flushing Water System
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Water
- Post and Courier: Discolored Water in Aiken Due to Heat
- Google Search: Aiken water discoloration
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
