Aiken, SC, August 28, 2025
News Summary
Residents and business owners in Aiken, SC, are grappling with discolored water containing grit and sediment, highlighting concerns about the aging infrastructure. City officials are flushing the system and increasing chemical treatments, but skepticism remains among residents about future water quality. Plans for infrastructure improvements, including a new water treatment plant, are underway, although issues are expected to persist in the interim.
Aiken, SC – Residents and business owners in Aiken are facing ongoing challenges with discolored water, reporting yellow water containing grit and sediment coming through their faucets. This unsettling situation is not new, as the city previously dealt with brown water issues just a month ago.
City crews have responded to this water quality concern by flushing the system again, which was attributed to the high water demand during the summer months. This increased usage has led to sediment mixing into the water supply, exposing issues with the aging infrastructure.
The problem largely stems from the coating inside the cast-iron pipes that serve many areas in the north and west of downtown Aiken. Local business owners have expressed their apprehensions regarding the negative impact of discolored water on their operations. It has been highlighted that these old pipes are a significant contributor to the recurring water issues.
To address immediate concerns, the county has increased the use of chemicals—doubling the usual amounts—aimed at preventing corrosion in the older pipes. Additionally, plans for future infrastructure improvements are in place, which include replacing some of the cast-iron lines in older neighborhoods and constructing a new water treatment plant that is expected to begin operating in two years.
While these plans signal progress, skepticism persists among residents about the likelihood of encountering brown water again before these improvements are realized. Furthermore, the South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) has provided guidance to residents to remain vigilant, particularly following recent earthquake reports in the region.
City officials recommend specific measures to mitigate the discolored water issues. Residents are advised to open the cold water taps on the lowest floor of their homes gradually to help clear the discoloration, using only cold water to avoid additional complications. After flushing, faucets should be turned off in the reverse order of reopening, and if problems persist, residents are instructed to contact the customer service line at 803-642-7629.
In wake of the flushing operations, homeowners should expect higher water bills due to the necessary cleaning processes being undertaken. The city is strategically working on flushing hydrants throughout residential areas, but residents should be aware that it may take some time for the water quality to fully improve.
To aid in addressing these ongoing concerns, local business owners and residents are encouraged to report specific issues through the city’s website, which will help in monitoring and managing the water supply effectively.
Background Context
The challenges with water quality in Aiken underscore the broader infrastructure issues that many cities across the country face, particularly those with aging piping systems. Cast-iron pipes, while durable, can lead to various water quality issues as they age. Efforts to modernize these systems, including treatments and replacements, are vital for ensuring safe drinking water for all residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should residents do if they experience discolored water?
Residents are advised to open cold water taps on the lowest floor of their home gradually and use only cold water to help clear the discoloration. If discolored water persists, they should contact the customer service line at 803-642-7629.
Why is the water discolored?
The discoloration is primarily due to sediment mixing into the water, which has been exacerbated by the aging cast-iron pipes that serve many areas in Aiken. High water demand during the summer has caused extra sediment to mix into the water supply.
What steps is the city taking to resolve these water issues?
The city has implemented additional treatments to prevent corrosion and is working on plans to replace older pipes in some neighborhoods. A new water treatment plant is also scheduled to be built within two years.
Key Features of Aiken’s Water Issues
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Water Condition | Yellow water with grit and sediment reported |
| Recent Incidents | Previous brown water issues reported a month ago |
| Infrastructure Challenges | Aging cast-iron pipes causing ongoing problems |
| Current Remedies | Increased chemical treatment and hydrant flushing |
| Future Plans | Replacing old pipes and building a new treatment plant in two years |
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Yellow water issues raise questions in Aiken
- Wikipedia: Water Quality
- WJBF: Reports of discolored water throughout Aiken
- Google Search: Aiken SC water issues
- Post and Courier: Discolored water in Aiken
- Google Scholar: Water Infrastructure Issues
- WFXG: Aiken issues boil water advisory
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Water Quality
- WFXG: Aiken water troubles impact local business
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.
