11/03/2026
Boiling Water Alert
Subject: Recommend actions after the Darwin Boil Water Alert is Lifted
Following the recent boil water alert affecting Greater Darwin and Palmerston, issued after flooding impacted the Darwin River Dam pump station, NT Health advised residents to boil water for drinking, food preparation, baby formula and brushing teeth until the supply is confirmed safe.
Once the boil water alert is officially lifted by NT Health and the water supply is confirmed safe to drink, it is recommended that users take several precautionary steps to ensure drinking water systems and appliances are free from any potential contamination.
Many domestic and commercial water filters (including refrigerator filters, ice machines, boiling/chilled water units and under-sink filters) are not designed to remove bacteria or pathogens.
During a boil water alert, bacteria may become trapped within filter media, which can lead to contamination after normal supply resumes. For this reason, replacing filters and flushing systems is strongly recommended.
Recommended Actions After the Alert is Lifted
1. Replace Water Filters
Replace any filters connected to drinking water systems, including:
• Refrigerator water filters
• Boiling and chilled water units
• Ice machines
• Under-sink drinking water filters
• Plumbed water dispensers
2. Empty Stored Potable Water Tanks And Clean
Stored water tanks will require draining and cleaning after the Alert has been lifted. Conducting these works will assist with the removal and growth of bacteria and pathogens to assist in cleaner water to the plumbing system and reduce the chances of getting sick.
3. Flush Drinking Water Lines
Flush internal plumbing connected to drinking water appliances by running cold water taps and drinking fountains for at least 1–2 minutes to clear stagnant water from the lines.
4. Flush Appliance Supply Lines
Operate connected appliances to flush supply lines:
• Run refrigerator dispensers for several minutes
• Run boiling/chilled units until fresh water cycles through the system
5. Discard Ice
Discard any ice made during the boil water alert period. Run the ice maker and discard at least three full batches of ice to ensure supply lines are cleared.
6. Flush Dishwashers and Washing Machines
Run one empty cycle in dishwashers and washing machines to flush any potentially affected water remaining in the internal plumbing.
Taking these steps will help ensure that any water potentially affected during the boil water alert period is fully cleared from your plumbing systems and appliances.
If you require assistance replacing filters, cleaning potable water tanks or servicing water filtration systems, please contact our office.
If you are interested in reducing the risk of bacteria in your water by installing a system, before it reaches your tap, give us a call to discuss Puretec Group whole house and single point of use filter options.
Regards
Gold Medal Services Team
8947 3000
[email protected]
Gold Medal Services provides plumbing, electrial and fire safety solutions for Darwin, Palmerston and beyond
