What to Do if Your Tap Has Rusty Water
Rusty water flowing from your tap can be a disconcerting sight. Whether you’re about to brush your teeth or fill a glass, the last thing you want is a stream of brown, cloudy water. While rusty water is generally not harmful, it can be an unpleasant and unsettling experience. If you find yourself dealing with rusty water in your home, it could be due to corroded pipes, mineral buildup, or utility company operations.
Understanding Rusty Water
Tap water can appear rusty when it contains an excess of sediment or minerals. The most common minerals responsible for water discoloration are iron and manganese. These tiny metallic deposits can enter the water stream through various natural or man-made sources. Additionally, these minerals can contribute to unpleasant tastes or odors in your water.
It’s important to note that while these minerals are not harmful to human health, they can affect the taste, smell, and appearance of your water. If you’re experiencing rusty water, it may be a good idea to have a plumber test the water quality in your home to rule out any other underlying issues.
Resolving Rusty Water Issues
Now that you have a better understanding of what rusty water is, let’s explore some potential solutions based on the different scenarios:
- If all hot and cold water turns brown suddenly:
Contact your water supply company to inquire about any ongoing maintenance or issues in the area. They can provide you with information on when the water is expected to clear up and the steps they are taking to resolve the problem. Once the utility work is complete, running your faucets for a few minutes will help flush out any remaining sediment. If you notice rusty water in your toilets, flushing them multiple times can refresh the water supply and eliminate the discoloration.
- If only your hot water is discolored:
Try draining and flushing your water heater’s tank to remove sediment buildup. Additionally, check if the anode rod, responsible for attracting corrosive minerals, needs replacement. A professional plumber can assist you in assessing and resolving any persistent issues with your water heater.
- If specific cold-water faucets continue to produce rusty water:
Begin by running the affected faucets at full pressure for several minutes until the water runs clear. This process can dislodge minor rust particles that may have accumulated. However, if the rusty water persists or reappears shortly after flushing, it’s crucial to address the corroded or rusted pipes. Contacting a professional plumber like Reichelt Plumbing will ensure a thorough inspection and appropriate solutions, such as deep cleaning or pipe replacement, to prevent further complications.
Contact Reichelt Plumbing for Rusty Water Concerns
If you’re dealing with rusty water issues in your home, the expert team at Reichelt Plumbing is here to help. We understand the importance of clean and safe water for you and your family. Our experienced plumbers can diagnose the cause of your rusty water and provide efficient solutions to restore clear and healthy water flow in your plumbing system.
Don’t settle for bathing in or drinking rusty water. Contact Reichelt Plumbing today at (219) 322-4906 to schedule an appointment and let us take care of your plumbing needs.