Whether you’re a homeowner, a renter, or even running a business, you might run into the issue of brown water from your faucets. If you’ve ever turned on your tap only to be greeted by a rush of discolored liquid, you know it’s not a pleasant experience. It’s also pretty alarming.
But while it’s poorly understood, brown water coming from faucets is a fairly common problem. So, what do you do if it happens to your plumbing? First, it’s crucial to know what you’re dealing with.
What Causes Brown Water from Your Taps?
Brown water can come as quite a shock, especially when you were expecting nothing but pure, crystal-clear H2O. The discoloration is usually due to one of several factors. For one, it could be rust in the pipes. When iron pipes corrode, they leave rust sediments, which can then be carried along with the water, causing that brownish tinge.
The source of the problem could also be to local work on the water supply network. Disturbance of sediments during repairs or maintenance can make the water appear brown. This is usually temporary, resolving once the works are completed and the system is fully flushed.
Another potential cause is high levels of iron or manganese in the water source, which can make the water look brown. This is common in some areas with certain types of groundwater sources, such as wells and springs. These sources often contain naturally occurring minerals. And as iron and manganese are quite abundant in the Earth’s crust, they can easily dissolve into the groundwater that flows through it.
Is Brown Water Safe to Drink?
If you’ve got brown tap water, the question at the forefront of your mind is probably: “Is this water safe to drink?” While your first instinct might be to steer clear of it, the truth is that brown water isn’t necessarily dangerous. It’s certainly not appetizing, and it can have a metallic taste due to the minerals, but in many cases, it’s not directly harmful.
However, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. If the brown water is due to a sudden change in your local water supply, it’s wise to avoid drinking it until it runs clear. If it’s a persistent issue, it might be wise to have your water tested just to be sure there aren’t other contaminants present. Fortunately, some water experts offer free water testing to help you get to the bottom of the issue.
What Should You Do If Your Faucets Have Brown Water?
First off, don’t panic. If you’ve just noticed brown water flowing from your taps, your best bet is to let the water run for a few minutes to see if it clears up. Sometimes, the water needs to flush out any rust or sediments in the pipes.
If the brown water continues, it might be due to an issue in your house’s plumbing. In this case, the solution may involve replacing old pipes or installing a water treatment system. If you’re unsure of the cause or the best course of action, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional. They can diagnose the problem and recommend possible remedies.
When to Call the Professionals About Brown Water
If you’ve let the water run, it hasn’t cleared up, and it’s becoming a persistent issue, it might be time to call in the professionals. A qualified plumber or water treatment specialist can identify the root cause of your brown water and suggest effective solutions.
Moreover, if you notice a sudden change in the taste, smell, or color of your water, it’s recommended to reach out to your local water company or a water quality expert. They can perform tests to ensure your water is safe and recommend necessary actions. Drinking dirty water can expose you to contaminants and cause serious health issues, so it’s always wiser to err on the side of caution where your H2O is concerned.
How to Get Cleaner Water in Your Home
Even when the brown water problem is solved, you might want to take extra measures to ensure your water is as clean as possible. After all, clean water is essential for our health.
For one thing, you could consider installing a whole-house water filtration system. These systems are designed to remove a variety of contaminants, including sediment and rust that can cause brown water. There are many options on the market, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs and budget.
For an even more comprehensive solution, a water softener can be beneficial, especially in areas with hard water. It can reduce the minerals in the water that lead to pipe build-up and water discoloration, plus prevent a number of hard water’s side effects. Treating your home to softer water is better for the health of your hair, skin, plumbing, appliances, and even items like clothes and dishes that may be washed in the water from your pipes.
Ensure Purer H2O with The Science of Water
Drinking dirty water can have serious health consequences, but with the right precautions, you can protect yourself and your family from contamination. At The Science of Water, we understand that water safety is a critical priority. That’s why we offer free water testing and consultations to guarantee the safety of your home’s water supply.
At The Science of Water, we assess and install water filtration systems to meet your unique needs. Using filtration technology backed by NASA and the EPA, our advanced water systems purify your home’s tap water to the highest standard. Whatever you’re looking for in a water filtration system, we can help you enjoy safer, clearer, and more delicious water through every faucet and appliance in your home.
Don’t risk drinking dirty water. Proactively protect your household with water testing and filtration for pure, delicious H2O that can be relied on. For more information about The Science of Water or to book your free water test, just get in touch with our team today!