Residents in Macarthur, Fadden, Gilmore, Wanniassa and Chisholm were urged to continue cutting back on their usage and not to drink the water if it appeared "objectionable" until about 5pm.

An Actew Water spokeswoman said the broken pipe was so large, it took more time than expected for it to be replaced.

Crews worked through Tuesday night in a bid to fix a burst main before it was pressure tested and the water re-diverted on Wednesday.

Crews will return to the area on Thursday to undertake necessary clean ups around the area.

The spokeswoman said some discolouration might continue as water was redistributed through the affected pipes due to natural sediment.

She expected discolouration to be minimal and resolved with normal use.

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A number of houses did not have access to clear water from Monday night after a Macarthur main burst, resulting in the loss of a large amount of water. It also left a number of households with dirty-coloured water on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Actew Water set up several refill stations in the area Tuesday evening for residents affected by the discolouration.

The spokeswoman recommended residents avoid drinking water if it appeared, tasted or smelled objectionable.

She said discoloured water could stain clothes and clog filters.

ACT SES chief officer Tony Graham co-ordinated volunteers supplying fresh water on the ground on Tuesday night.

He could not recall the SES having to supply the public with water during his career.

"In terms of providing a fresh water supply for affected customers, I'm reasonably confident we've never done that in the past. Certainly not in my memory," he said.

Residents are asked to contact Actew Water on 6248 3111 if discolouration continues on Wednesday.