Does Your Water Look Rusty Or Taste Like Iron? What’s That About?
Rusty-looking water is a fairly common plumbing issue – and one that’s not usually as bad as you think. Rusty water can come from anywhere in your plumbing system.
Health Risks Of Discolored Water
Is it dangerous? We cannot tell without testing your water. But on its own, rusty water is not harmful bacteria or lead, which are unhealthy. Rust can be a metallic taste in water and generally caused by dissolved metals, such as iron, copper, or sometimes manganese.
The EPA regulates the treatment of drinking water contaminants according to primary and secondary standards. Public city water systems must test for primary contaminants on a regular basis, but testing for secondary contaminants, like rust, is voluntary. Learn more on your city water testing from the EPA Consumer Confidence Report (CCR).
- Iron in your water is not a health hazard, but neither is it very aesthetic.
- A tiny amount of dissolved iron can turn the water an alarming reddish-brown color, give tea and coffee a disagreeable flavor, and give your fresh veggies a strange dark color.
- Rusty water may indicate that the pipes are corroding and can eventually leak.
- Rusty water can mean your water heater have become rusty or corroded. Try draining and flushing your water heater’s tank. Sediment build up is the number one causes of water heater leaks.
- If suddenly all hot and cold water faucets are rusty chances are there is water main or fire hydrant problem.
- If one or two faucets you can run water for 15 minutes to flush or until clear water returns. If rust continues it may be because your pipes have corroded. If you have a corroded or rusted pipe, replace the pipe ASAP and avoid other problems.
- PDM Rust Doctors have filters that work well in our area for city or well water.
Rusty Water Causes And Potential Fixes
The first step to fixing rusty water is to identify where and how widespread the discoloration is.
- Is it just a few faucets or cold water only? This sign of rust or corrosion may be close to only those faucets. Run the water for 15 minutes to see if it clears up. Maybe a small amount of rust broke off from inside the pipe. If your rusty water continues call a professional plumber to inspect, you may need to be replace water piping before they corrode further or break.
- If only your hot water is rusty – your water heater tank needs to be drained and flushed. Let it refill and heat up, then check for rusty water again. If it’s still discolored, call PDM Plumbers to take a look.
- Both the hot and cold water turn brown rusty – Your main water supply may be the cause. Call your city department and tell them what you found. If you have a private well you may need filtering help and or piping repair.
Rusty Water Or A Filtering Problem? PDM Plumbing Since 1885 Has A Prescription For You.
Nobody should have to shower in–much less drink rusty water. Discolored water is an issue that can usually be resolved quickly by an experienced plumber. Call PDM for water treatment advice.
Plumbing And Water Service In The Greater Joliet, IL Area
To enjoy crystal-clear water in your home trust PDM Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Since 1885 at 815-207-4111. Serving Joliet, Plainfield, New Lenox, Bolingbrook and SW Chicago suburbs.
