If you’re experiencing brown water coming from your tap, don’t panic just yet! This issue, while alarming, is relatively common and usually fixable. Discolored water can occur for several reasons, and understanding the cause will help you find the right solution. Let’s dive into the possible reasons for your brown water, and how to clear it up.

Is Brown Water Safe to Consume or Bathe in?

Well, it depends. Brown water is often caused by rust, sediment, or mineral buildup, none of which are ideal for consumption. While the water may not be harmful in small doses, it’s generally recommended that you avoid drinking or cooking with it until the issue is resolved. Bathing in brown water is usually safe for your body, but it might irritate sensitive skin. What it will most certainly do is stain your tub and linens if the problem persists.

Potential Causes of Brown Tap Water (& How to Fix it)

Identifying the causes of brown tap water is crucial for resolving the issue effectively. The most common reasons behind brown water in your home’s water supply include:

1. Rusty Pipes

Over time, older pipes, especially those made from iron, can corrode and release rust particles into your water supply. This rust often appears brown or reddish.

How to Fix

If the pipes in your home are rusty, you may need to replace them. An expert plumber can inspect your system and recommend whether it’s best to replace a section of your plumbing or if a full pipe replacement is necessary.

2. Water Main Breaks or Flushing

When municipal water lines are being repaired or flushed, it can stir up sediment and rust, causing your water to turn brown temporarily.

How to Fix

This issue usually resolves itself within a few hours. We recommend letting the water run for several minutes to help clear out the pipes. If the problem persists for more than a few hours, contact your water provider.

3. Sediment Build-Up in the Water Heater

Sediment can accumulate in your water heater over time, particularly in areas with hard water. When stirred up, you may see brown or murky water flowing from your taps.

How to Fix

You’ll need to flush your water heater regularly to prevent sediment buildup. While it’s possible to do it yourself, you may want to hire a plumber to handle this task for you.

4. High Levels of Iron or Manganese in Water Supply

If your area has naturally high levels of iron or manganese in its groundwater, these minerals can turn your water brown.

How to Fix

A water filtration system can remove excess minerals from your water. An experienced plumber can help you determine whether you need a whole-house filtration system or a point-of-use filter for specific faucets. In some cases, a water softener may also be recommended to reduce mineral levels and prevent future build-up.

Why is My Well Water Brown?

Wells typically use pumps, like submersible pumps, to draw water up for household use. When these pumps start to corrode, rust can contaminate your water supply, resulting in brown discoloration. This problem often occurs due to extended exposure to moisture and minerals present in the well water, which accelerates the corrosion process over time.

How to Fix

A well professional can inspect and replace the pump if necessary, ensuring your water is clean and rust-free. It’s important to also have a plumber perform routine maintenance to prevent future issues, including regularly testing the water quality and checking for signs of wear and tear on the pump.

Plumbing Services in Northern Virginia

If you’re experiencing brown water from your tap or any other plumbing concerns, call or schedule an appointment today with your friendly neighborhood plumbers at Kiddco Plumbing!

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