When you turn on the water faucet in your home and discover that the water is not clear, you are instantly filled with concern. What is contaminating your water? And how can this problem be corrected? Questions quickly flood your brain. Fortunately, in most cases, the issue is related to rust. And it is not as significant a health risk as many other contaminants. But you need to get to the bottom of the problem and have it corrected before it becomes any worse.
Common Signs Of Rust Contamination
In its early stages, it might be challenging to notice the contamination in your water. But as more rust accumulates, it will be very easy to notice some of the following common signs:
- Tiny particulates in the water
- Water with a slight brown or yellow tone
- Water with an odd taste
- An odd odor to your water
All of these can be caused by rust contamination. And you need to determine what is causing this problem so that it can be corrected quickly.
Where Is The Rust Coming From?
There are many parts of your home\’s plumbing system that could be contaminating your water with rust. The most common sources include the home’s plumbing lines, the main water supply line, or your home\’s water heater. And there is also the possibility that the rust is coming from the city water supply. What is critical is that you track down the source.
Tips For Locating The Rust In Your Water
First, return to the faucet where you first noticed the rusty water. Fill a glass with cold water and check for rust in the water. Then let the water run for several seconds and collect another glass of water to examine for rust particulates or discoloration. Next, collect a water sample of hot water. Then let the hot water run for several seconds and collect a second glass of only hot water.
If the contamination is only present in hot water, you can be reasonably sure the source is your water heater. If both the hot and cold water contains rust contamination, your home\’s water pipes are likely the culprit. If your home\’s water lines are rusting, you might find that after running the water for a few seconds or more, the water appears clear. But when you turn on another faucet later, the rust reappears.
If rusty water is coming from both hot and cold water lines, there is also the possibility that the problem lies in the water coming from your supplier. This cause is more likely if you live in a newer home or know that your home\’s water lines have been replaced in the last few years or are now metal pipes.
What To Do About Rust Contamination
If the rust contamination is coming from some component of your home\’s plumbing, the solution will entail some kind of replacement. And the best way to confirm the cause of the rust corrosion is with a call to the licensed plumbers at Thompson and Thompson.
Call (912) 236-3333 to schedule an appointment with one of our team members to examine your water heater and plumbing lines for rust. The solution could be as simple as draining and flushing your water heater or replacing the anode. However, if the issue is inside the water pipes, the resolution will include repiping your home. The one thing that you can count on is an honest and thorough inspection of your home\’s plumbing components and cost-effective solutions to any issue.
