Rusty Tap Water: Decoding the Issue

Rusty Tap Water: Decoding the Issue

Discovering brown, rusty water flowing from your faucet can be alarming, but there's no need to panic. This common plumbing issue has several potential causes, and with proper diagnosis, most can be resolved quickly. Understanding the pattern of discoloration is your first step toward an effective solution.

Diagnosing the Source of Rusty Water

The key to resolving rusty water issues lies in proper diagnosis. By observing which faucets are affected and whether the discoloration appears in hot water, cold water, or both, you can narrow down the potential causes:

When Both Hot and Cold Tap Water Are Discolored

If both hot and cold water appear rusty, the issue likely originates outside your home's plumbing system.

Common External Causes:

• Water main breaks or repairs in your neighborhood
• Hydrant flushing by local fire departments
• Municipal water system maintenance
• Sediment disturbance in main water lines

Should you notice brown sediment or residue in both hot and cold water, check for community "boil water warnings" to determine if this is a widespread issue. If not, promptly contact your local water authority to inquire about any recent maintenance on water mains. This can help identify the cause and estimate the time until your water supply returns to normal.

What Does it Mean When Only Hot Water Appears Discolored?

When rusty water is isolated to hot water faucets while cold water remains clear, your hot water heater is the most likely culprit.

Water Heater Warning Signs:

• Brown or reddish hot water
• Metallic taste or smell in hot water
• Sediment or particles visible in hot water
• Reduced hot water pressure
• Unusual noises from your water heater

Sediment accumulation in the water heater can lead to rusty brown water and accelerate tank corrosion. Address this issue promptly to prevent potential damage to your water heater. Sediment buildup increases the risk of leaks, cracks, and even complete tank failure.

What Does it Mean When Rusty Tap Water Is Limited to Certain Faucets?

When rusty water appears only from specific faucets, the issue is likely isolated to the pipes serving those fixtures.

Localized Causes and Solutions:

• Corroded galvanized pipes in older sections of plumbing
• Rust buildup in rarely used fixtures
• Recent plumbing work that disturbed sediment
• Deteriorating faucet components

Older plumbing systems often use galvanized pipes that naturally corrode over time. Running the water for approximately 20 minutes may sometimes clear out small amounts of rust. However, if the issue persists, replacing the affected pipe sections may be necessary for a permanent solution.

Plumb-All: Your Comprehensive Plumbing Solution

Dealing with rusty water can be frustrating, but you don't have to tackle it alone. Plumb-All's experienced technicians can quickly diagnose the source of discoloration and implement effective solutions. For all your plumbing needs, contact Plumb-All at (770) 914-3877 or reach out to us online. We are fully licensed, bonded, and insured, providing unparalleled service throughout Jonesboro and surrounding areas. Call us today—you'll be glad you did!