How can iron, manganese, and objectionable odours be managed?
– RDN Water Utilities removes settled deposits of iron and manganese and pockets of “stale” water by regularly flushing water lines and reservoirs. RDN Environmental Services continues to explore and test other treatment options. Homeowners can control iron and manganese by regularly flushing their water lines and hot water tanks and twice annually opening all inside and outside taps to remove sediments and maximize water flow. Letting a tap run first thing in the morning will clear any sediment from the service line. Avoid using bleach when doing the laundry as it compounds the problem of iron staining by intensifying precipitation and oxidation. You can use a non-chlorinated whitener, such as OxiClean, to help remove existing stains from kitchen and bathroom fixtures and clothing, and keep stains away when added to your laundry along with your regular laundry soap.