What Your Discolored Water is Telling You
Why is my water discolored? It all depends on the specific plumbing issue you're experiencing. No, we're not talking about colors like purple or teal. We're talking about black and orange, which are usually signs that there is something seriously wrong with your plumbing system. This could be an issue with your municipal pipelines or your personal ones, but either way, contact your local Roto-Rooter professional right away.
Red, Brown, Orange, Yellow
If you notice a stream of red, brown, or orange water coming from any of your water faucets, this usually indicates the presence of iron or manganese, meaning your old cast-iron pipes are rusted. You might also see discolored water in the toilet.
The color variations have to do with different oxidation levels, but either way, you should call a plumber and replace your pipes as soon as possible. Rusty water isn't detrimental to your health, but it can:
- Stain your sink and laundry
- Affect the taste and color of your food
- Damage appliances and plumbing
How to fix: To prevent this dirty, colored water in the future, consider having your pipes replaced with a non-rusting metal, like copper or the new PEX piping that is flexible and non-corrosive.
Black
Black water coming from a drain pipe poses a serious hazard to your health, as this color reflects the presence of sewage caused by a drain clog or sewer backup into your home. What causes the growth is the wet hair and soap scum that accumulates within the drain over time. While some people may not react to mold at all, others might experience:
- Stuffiness
- Coughing
- Irritation to the eyes, throat, or skin
How to fix: Consider purchasing a drain stopper to prevent this type of buildup. Call a professional plumber to have your pipes replaced immediately.
Foggy/Foamy White
While foggy water is typically harmless to your body, it indicates a damaged pipe and results in a stained sink. The cloudiness is caused by mineral particles that are finely divided in the water.
How to fix: Test the problem to make sure it’s just trapped air by leaving a glass of discolored water from the tap to sit for a couple of minutes. If the milkiness goes away, then the problem is just air bubbles. If the cloudiness stays, it could be minerals or sediment, and you may need a plumber’s help.
Don’t Let Discoloration of Water Affect Your Home
Dealing with discolored water is frustrating, but most causes are easy to track down once you know what to look for. Clear water should never be far away. If the problem doesn’t go away, call a licensed plumber to get your water running clean again. Your local Roto-Rooter professionals are always here to help, whether you’re dealing with rust buildup or other unidentifiable sediment. Call us today at 800-768-6911 to schedule your appointment for clearer water.
FAQs on Why Your Water Is Discolored
Is it safe to drink discolored water?
Not always. A slight tint may be harmless minerals, but brown or rusty water can signal pipe corrosion or sediment. It’s best to avoid drinking until the water clears and you know the cause.
Why is my water discolored?
Common culprits include rust from old pipes, mineral buildup, sediment in the water main, or maintenance work by the utility company. Sometimes it’s temporary, but other times, it points to plumbing issues in your home.
Why is my hot water discolored?
If only the hot water looks rusty or brown, your water heater is likely the source. Sediment can build up in the tank, or the metal parts may be corroding. Flushing the tank often fixes it.
Why is my tap water discolored?
Tap water can turn brown, yellow, or cloudy from sediment, pipe corrosion, or utility work nearby. If it doesn’t clear after running the faucet for a few minutes, call a plumber to check your system.
What to do if my water is brown?
Brown water isn’t great. Who do I call if my water is brown? Start by checking with your local water utility to see if there’s maintenance or a main break. If the issue is only in your home, call a licensed plumber to inspect your pipes or water heater.
Why is my city water brown?
City water can look brown if there’s a main break, hydrant flushing, or construction work on the lines. Rust and sediment get stirred up and flow into homes. Usually, it clears within a few hours.