What To Do When Your Water Is Discolored

Why Is My Water Brown?

Brown water can be caused by many factors, including natural organic matter in the water supply, iron leaching, rusting pipes, or even bacterial growth. To determine what's causing the discoloration, check your toilet bowl after flushing. If it's brown after you flush but goes away without any other signs of brown water problems, then it's probably just natural organic matter in the supply line and nothing to worry about.

If it remains brown or gets worse over time, however, or if you notice other signs of contamination like bad smells or strange odors (e.g., hydrogen sulfide), there may be an issue with your plumbing. You should contact Leak Detection of Atlanta for emergency plumber assistance as soon as possible.

Is Brown Water Dangerous or Poisonous?

One of the biggest concerns with brown water is whether it is safe to drink or use. Water discoloration can be caused by several factors, some of which may pose a health risk. It is important to understand that brown water is not necessarily dangerous or poisonous, but it can contain impurities and contaminants that make it unsafe for consumption.

For example, the discoloration could be caused by excess iron or manganese in the water supply, naturally occurring minerals that do not pose a health threat. However, suppose the brown color is caused by a leak or broken water main. In that case, it may contain harmful substances like bacteria, lead, or other pollutants that could be harmful if consumed or used for personal hygiene.

In any case, it's recommended to avoid drinking or using brown water until you have determined the cause and taken the necessary steps to correct it. If you need more clarification about the safety of your water, it's best to seek professional advice or have the water tested.

How Do I Get Rid of Brown Water?

Discolored water can be an annoyance or a serious health hazard. If you have discolored water, you may need to call a nearby plumber. But if the problem is just temporary, here are some steps you can take at home:

Check the toilet

If your toilet has been running or there is a lot of flushing, the water in your house could be turning brown because of rust. To check this, turn off all taps and flush the toilet. If the water runs clear, there's nothing wrong with your plumbing.

Check for sediment buildup

Sediment can build up inside pipes over time and cause discoloration when it mixes with your regular water supply. To check for this problem, turn off all taps and flush your toilet as before. If the water runs clear, add bleach to a bucket of cold water and pour it down the drain until it runs clear again. This should remove any sediment that's built up inside the pipe.

Replace filters

If there isn't any obvious cause of discoloration, but you still have brown water from your faucets, replace filters on all appliances that use water, such as dishwashers or washing machines (or simply run them).

Leak Detection of Atlanta Can Help

Brown water can be an unsettling and potentially harmful problem. However, with a better understanding of the causes and solutions, it's possible to rectify the issue and get back to safe, clear water. If you're experiencing brown water, it's important to take action as soon as possible to determine the source of the discoloration and address it. Whether a simple solution like flushing your pipes or a more complex issue like a leak, prompt attention can help you get your water back to normal. If you need professional help, Leak Detection of Atlanta can assist you in finding the root of the problem and fixing it. Take control of your water before the situation worsens - take control of your water today.