Having clean, fresh water come out of the tap is something we all take for granted. It’s hard to imagine a day when we wouldn’t expect it to be clear and safe. But what happens when brown drinking water suddenly flows from your faucet? This can be a startling and concerning issue, and it’s not something to ignore.
Brown drinking water sure looks unpleasant, but it’s also a sign that something is wrong with your water system. The good news is that there are solutions, and identifying the cause is the first step to restoring your water quality. Sometimes it’s harmless, while other times, it could indicate a bigger problem that requires immediate attention.
Potential Causes of Brown Drinking Water
There are several reasons why you may experience brown drinking water. Below, we’ll explore the most common causes and what can be done about each one:
- Rust in Water Pipes
- Issues With the Water Heater
- Excess Iron in Water Supply
- Sediment Disturbances in the Water System
- Corroded or Damaged Water Lines
Rust in Water Pipes
Rust can be one of the most common reasons for brown drinking water. Over time, older pipes, especially those made of iron, can corrode, causing rust particles to break free into your water supply. When this happens, the rust mixes with your water and turns it brown. The discolored water can appear in both hot water and cold water, depending on where the rust is occurring.
Potential Fix
If rust is the cause of your discolored water, replacing the old, corroded water lines might be necessary. Installing new pipes can solve the problem long-term. In some cases, the rust may be coming from a specific section of the plumbing, in which case a partial pipe replacement can fix the issue. It’s important to call a professional plumber to evaluate the situation. Additionally, installing a filtration system can help reduce rust particles in your water.
Issues with the Water Heater
Sometimes, the problem is isolated to your hot water, which could point to an issue with your water heater. Water heaters can accumulate sediment over time, especially if they are not regularly maintained. This sediment can include rust or other minerals that cause brown or discolored water. When the heater kicks on, these particles can mix with the water and create a brown tint.
Potential Fix
Flushing your water heater is the first step in resolving this issue. A plumber can drain the water heater and remove any built-up sediment that may be affecting the water quality. Regular maintenance of your water heater, including flushing it at least once a year, can help prevent this problem from recurring. If your water heater is old and deteriorating, replacing it might be the best option to ensure clean water.
Excess Iron in the Water Supply
Another common cause of brown tap water is an excess of iron particles in the water supply. Iron is a naturally occurring mineral in water sources, but when present in high amounts, it can cause the water to turn brown. Iron can enter your home’s water system through corroded pipes or from the municipal water supply.
Potential Fix
If excess iron is detected in your water, installing a water filtration system can help remove the iron particles and restore your water to a clear state. A plumber can test your water to determine the exact level of iron and recommend the best filtration solution. In some cases, working with your local water utility may be necessary to address the issue at the source.
Sediment Disturbances in the Water System
Sometimes, brown drinking water is the result of disturbances in the broader water system. This can happen when municipal water systems are flushed, during maintenance work, or after heavy rainfall. These activities can stir up sediment and other particles in the water mains, leading to temporarily discolored water in your home.
Potential Fix
In most cases, this issue resolves itself once the sediment settles, or the flushing process is complete. Running your cold water for several minutes can help clear out the discolored water. If the problem persists, however, you should contact your water provider or a plumber to investigate further.
Corroded or Damaged Water Lines
Corrosion or damage in your home’s water lines can also lead to brown water. Like rust, corroded pipes can release particles into the water, causing discoloration. Damage to the water lines, such as cracks or leaks, can also introduce contaminants into your water supply.
Potential Fix
Fixing corroded or damaged water lines often involves replacing the affected sections of the pipes. A professional plumber can inspect the lines and determine the best course of action. Installing a filtration system may also help reduce contaminants in the meantime.
Other Issues Besides Brown Drinking Water
While brown drinking water is concerning, it can also cause other household issues, particularly when it comes to laundry and dishes.
Dishes
Discolored water can leave unpleasant stains on your dishes. When you wash dishes with brown water, you might notice streaks or a filmy residue that’s difficult to remove. This is especially true for white or light-colored dishes. These stains can make your dishes look dirty, even after washing.
Laundry
Washing clothes with brown tap water can result in stained fabrics. White clothes and linens are especially vulnerable to discoloration from iron and other particles in the water. These stains can be hard to remove and may require special cleaning products designed to deal with rust stains.
FAQs About Brown Drinking Water
What should I do if my drinking water turns brown?
First, run the cold water for several minutes to see if the discoloration clears. If the problem persists, contact a plumber to investigate the source of the issue.
Is it safe to drink brown tap water?
While brown water is usually not an immediate health risk, it’s best to avoid drinking it until the cause is identified and resolved. Brown drinking water often contains contaminants like rust or excess iron that can affect the taste and quality.
Can brown water affect my water heater?
Yes, discolored water can accumulate in your water heater, leading to sediment buildup. Regular maintenance, including flushing the water heater, can help prevent this.
Can a filtration system fix brown water?
Yes, installing a filtration system or a water treatment can help remove rust, iron particles, and other contaminants from your water supply, improving water quality.
What causes brown water in only my hot water?
If the discoloration is only present in your hot water, it’s likely due to sediment buildup in your water heater. Flushing the heater or replacing it may solve the problem.
Will brown water harm my plumbing?
Over time, brown drinking water can contribute to further pipe corrosion or damage, so it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible.
Should I call a plumber for brown water?
Yes, if you experience persistent brown drinking water, it’s a good idea to contact a plumber to diagnose the problem and recommend a solution.
If you’re dealing with brown drinking water, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Contact Meticulous Plumbing today to schedule an inspection. We’ll identify the cause of the problem and provide the necessary repairs or recommendations to restore your water quality. Whether it’s a rusty pipe, a water heater issue, or something else, we have the experience to help you get clear, clean water flowing again. Call us today!
