Aiken, South Carolina, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Residents and businesses in Aiken, South Carolina, are raising concerns about discolored tap water, described as brown and muddy. Complaints increased significantly, prompting city officials to assure residents of the water’s safety amid ongoing investigations into the aging infrastructure. City Manager Stuart Bendenbaugh confirmed that the water is tested regularly and measures are being pursued to address the issues.
The City of Aiken, South Carolina, is once again facing complaints from residents and businesses regarding discolored tap water. Many have reported issues that began on August 17, escalating to 41 complaints by August 19, despite previous resolutions earlier this summer.
Residents describe the water as having a brown and muddy appearance, raising serious questions about its safety. Concerns have been heightened among families with infants, who are increasingly choosing to buy bottled water due to their distrust in the tap water quality. Many individuals are questioning whether the water is safe for consumption.
City Manager Stuart Bendenbaugh has acknowledged the influx of complaints and stated that the City takes the issue seriously. He emphasized that the city’s water is still considered safe for drinking, as it undergoes daily testing by the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services. However, residents have noted that the water not only appears discolored but also carries a chlorine-like odor, adding to their unease.
The discoloration is primarily characterized by a yellowish tint, which has been attributed to the city’s aging infrastructure, specifically cast-iron pipes that harbor residue affecting water quality. A maintenance operation involving the flushing of fire hydrants is currently underway, aimed at clearing sediment and improving the water quality.
Further complicating the situation is the impact of discolored water on household tasks, such as laundry, leading to increased complaints regarding its effects. The city anticipates that the discoloration issues should clear up within a few days and encourages residents to report any concerns they may have.
In response to the ongoing issues, the city has enlisted a consultant to investigate the source of the discolored water, with a report expected by September 1. Historical complaints indicate that many of the affected areas are located in the southern and downtown regions of Aiken, suggesting recurring infrastructure problems.
As Aiken residents await resolution, they are urged to continue monitoring the situation and to reach out to city officials with any additional concerns regarding their water quality.
FAQ
What is causing the discolored water in Aiken?
The discoloration is primarily due to the city’s aging infrastructure, particularly cast-iron pipes that contain residue affecting water quality.
Is the water in Aiken safe to drink?
City officials assert that the water remains safe for drinking, as it is tested daily by the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services.
Why are residents experiencing a chlorine-like smell in their water?
Residents have reported a chlorine-like scent, which often accompanies issues related to water treatment processes and may be exacerbated by maintenance operations.
What actions is the city taking to address the discolored water issue?
The city is currently conducting maintenance, including flushing hydrants to remove sediment and has hired a consultant to investigate and report on the discolored water by September 1.
How many complaints have been received about the discolored water?
As of August 19, the city had received 41 complaints from residents regarding the discoloration of their water.
Key Features of the Aiken Water Discoloration Issue
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Issue | Discolored tap water |
| Start of Complaints | August 17 |
| Escalation of Complaints | 41 complaints by August 19 |
| Water Appearance | Brown and muddy looking with a yellowish tint |
| Aging Infrastructure | Issues related to cast-iron pipes |
| Current Actions | Flushing hydrants and consulting investigation |
| Expected Resolution | Clear up within a few days |
| Testing Agency | South Carolina Department of Environmental Services |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Aiken, S.C. Hires Consultant for Water Quality Investigation
City of Aiken Faces Water Quality Concerns Amid Infrastructure Upgrades
SRMC Interns Lead Community Clean-Up Initiative
Boil Water Advisories Issued in Aiken Following Water Main Breaks
Flood Advisory Issued for Aiken County Amidst Severe Weather
Aiken County School Board Approves Major Construction Projects
Aiken Community Events and Independence Day Celebrations
Aiken Sees Decline in Discolored Tap Water Complaints
Aiken Reports Decrease in Discolored Tap Water Complaints
Aiken Reports Decrease in Discolored Tap Water Complaints
Additional Resources
- WFXG: Brown Water Returns for Some Residents in Aiken
- Post & Courier: Aiken Discolored Water Complaints
- WRDW: Safety Alert – What to Know About Discolored Water Aiken
- WJBF: Reports of Discolored Water Throughout City of Aiken, S.C.
- WRDW: Aiken Officials Say Water Discoloration is Gradually Clearing Up
- Wikipedia: Water Quality
- Google Search: Discolored Water
- Google Scholar: Water Quality Infrastructure
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Water Quality
- Google News: 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.
