What to do when faucet water is brown and murky

09.08.2010

What to do when brown water comes out of the faucet? (Photo Credits)

Seeing brown and murky water flowing through one’s faucet can be troublesome for some homeowners. For one, it may mean that there is a need for piping replacement creating another expense, and more importantly, it may instill panic that the tap water is not safe to use. Plumbing Association of San Diego                

But what does it really mean when brown water comes out of the faucet, and what should a homeowner do in this case?

Bob Vila tried to explain the possible reasons why murky water would flow from a faucet.

“The most likely culprit is rust leeching from an aging galvanized iron pipe. If you mainly notice the discoloration first thing in the morning—or after being away from your home for a while—chances are it’s a supply line. That’s especially true if only one faucet in your home is spewing the brown stuff.”

Take a look at the whole article here.

Water Heater Issue

Another possible reason for seeing discolored water coming out of the tap, is a water heater issue. This was discussed by Home Guides SF Gate in one of their published articles. A/C And HVAC    

“Discolored hot water has multiple causes, including a failing hot water heater. But a water heater that’s only a few years old can still deliver discolored hot water without it meaning that the unit is faulty or failing. Galvanized iron plumbing corrodes with time and can release rusty to dark brown water in your home’s distribution system. If your water heater is new and you have copper or plastic water supply lines, temporary disturbances in the public water supply often lead to end-use discoloration in your home’s water delivery system. Turn on a cold-water tap anywhere in your home. If discolored water comes from it, the issue isn’t with the water heater. If the water is clear, your water heater might require maintenance.”

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The original article can be found here.

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Proreferral.com meanwhile mentioned yet another possible reason for brown water flowing through the tap.

“Too much iron and/or manganese in water causes it to turn brown. So, if you turn on the faucets to find brown-colored water flowing from it, you can be sure that the water system in your house has been contaminated with one or both of these metals. Iron occurs naturally in soil so it is not uncommon for it to make its way into your water supply line. This is especially true if you receive your supply of water from an underground well.”

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Check out the whole write-up here.

If brown water persists for an hour, it will be wise to call up the local water resource agency, and ask if there is a similar report from another member of the community. If none, then it is high time to check one’s water heating and plumbing system.

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Plumber’s Response to Murky Faucet Water