The water we use for consumption, bathing, and washing our clothes and dishes, should be clean and pure. Clean water should be crystal clear, not red, brown, orange, or other colors. Discolored water is a sign of a serious plumbing problem, one that could impact the health of you and your family.

Common Causes of Discolored Water in the Imperial Valley

There are many reasons why you may be having discolored water flowing out of your plumbing fixtures and appliances. These include:

• Sedimentation. If the hot water coming out of your pipes is rusty or brown in color, the problem may lie with a buildup of sediments in your water heater’s tank. Flushing the old water out of your water heater and replacing it with fresh clean water is an easy effective way to control sedimentation in your water heater. Flushing out your water once a year not only improves water quality but also helps extend the useful life of your water heater.

• Corrosion. Corrosion occurs over time as the metal that makes up a plumbing pipe reacts with the water flowing through it. The degradation caused by corrosion causes particles of metal to leach into the water, resulting in discoloration.

• Contamination. Algae or bacterial growth can contaminate your home’s water supply, resulting in green, blue, or brown-tinted water. Contaminated water can smell bad and make you ill if you drink it.

• Damaged water line. Water lines run beneath the ground. Soil can leak into a damaged or cracked water line, causing the water to turn brown with sedimentation.

• Variations in water pressure. Changes in water pressure can dislodge sediments and other deposits in your home’s pipes. This material can enter your home’s water pipes and discolor your water.

Backflow. Brown or dirt-colored water could be the result of a backflow problem.

The Color of Your Water Can Help You Identify the Cause of The Discoloration

The color of the water coming out of your pipes can help you identify the cause of the discoloration. For instance:

• Red, brown, or orange-colored water is often the result of rust or corrosion in your pipes or water heater. In addition to the discoloration, the water may also have a slightly metallic taste.

• Green water. In most cases, green water indicates algae or bacterial contamination. However, green-tinted water may also be the result of corrosion in copper pipes.

• Brown or dirt-colored water can contain sediments and organic materials. It often has a bad smell.

• Milky white water can be caused by dissolved air in the water. Letting the water stand for a few moments while the bubbles rise and escape usually restores the water to its normal clarity.

The Clear Choice for Emergency Plumbing Solutions in Pomona

If the water coming out of your pipes is an unusual color or has a strange taste or smell, contact Preferred Plumbing and Rooter Service without delay. Discolored water is often the symptom of a serious plumbing problem that requires immediate attention.

Our team of licensed Pomona plumbers have the experience and equipment to quickly trace the cause of your discolored water problem and provide expert, affordable solutions. We serve homes and businesses throughout Pomona and the Riverside County/San Bernardino County area. You can reach Preferred Plumbing and Rooter Service through our website or call us at (877) 298-8105. We’re available 24/7 to tackle whatever plumbing problem you’re dealing with.