What to Do When Your Tap Water Is Rusty

 The brown or reddish tint not only looks unsightly, but can also cause concern for your health, plumbing, and appliances. While rusty water isn't always dangerous, it's important to take the proper steps to identify the cause and fix the problem.

Understanding the Source of Rusty Water

Iron or manganese particles can enter the water supply due to corrosion in pipes, especially in older homes with iron pipes. In some cases, anomalies in the municipal water supply, such as nearby construction or the use of fire hydrants, can dislodge sediment and rust from the mains and send it into your taps. Identifying whether the problem is coming from your home or the public water supply is the first step to fixing it.

Identify whether the issue is with the hot or cold water

To narrow down the source, check to see if the rust color appears on both the hot and cold water faucets. Sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank can discolor the water, and flushing the water heater may solve the problem. If the problem is with both the hot and cold water, it could be due to corroded pipes or a problem with the municipal water system.

Avoid Drinking or Using the Water Temporarily

Although small amounts of rust in water are generally not harmful to your health, it is best to avoid drinking, cooking, or washing with discolored water until the problem has been fully assessed. 

Flush the System

Sometimes, rusty water is a temporary problem that can be solved by turning the faucet on for several minutes. Try flushing each faucet in your home to see if the discoloration disappears. Start with the cold water faucet in the bathroom, then the kitchen faucet, and finally the bathtub or outdoor hose, where a higher flow rate may help remove sediment.

Contact your water supplier or a plumber

If the problem persists or affects multiple homes in your neighborhood, it may be a municipal issue. Contact your local water supplier to report the problem and see if any maintenance is underway. If the problem seems isolated to your home, call a qualified plumber. They can inspect your pipes for corrosion, test your water quality, and recommend repairs or replacements if necessary.

Call Emergency Plumber in Warrington. We are 24 hours available.