Why Is Rusty-Colored Water Coming Out of My Faucets?

It can be alarming if you go to the sink to get a glass of water, and all that comes out is a rusty-colored liquid. You may wonder if it’s even water coming out of your tap. The good news is it is water, but the bad news is that you probably shouldn’t drink it. So, what could be causing your home’s water supply to run a brownish-red color? In this blog, we’ll break down some of the common reasons your home’s water supply could be tainted.

Build Up In Your Water Heater

A water heater is an essential piece of equipment for any household. Whether tank or tankless, your water heater can start to have sediment build up over time. If you experience sediment build-up, the sediment will have nowhere else to go other than out through your home’s pipes. The best way to prevent sediment from building up in your home’s water heater is to get your water heater regularly flushed. The recommended amount of times you should have your water heater flushed is once to twice a year. Sediment build-up should not be ignored as it can not only cause your water to be contaminated, but it can also cause leaks or explosions in your water heater.

Pipe Problems

Do you know when your house was built? Chances are if it was built in the 1960s or before, your pipes are starting to rust. Most pipes are made with a protective layer to prevent them from rusting, but it doesn’t last forever and as pipes age, the protective layer starts to wear off. When it starts to break down, the pipes corrode from the inside, and they then begin to rust. When pipes grow rust, the rust can flake off and get swept away by the water traveling in the pipes, which can come out in your kitchen sink or shower. If this happens it might be time to do some repiping in your home.

City Issues

Sometimes the plumbing issues your home can face are bigger than just you and your home. Sometimes the city has construction going on that can disrupt your home’s water supply. The nice thing about this is the city will most likely put out a statement to let you know what is going on and when the problem should be resolved. This is nice because that means the problem will go away on its own and you just have to wait it out. In the meantime, drink bottled water and avoid cleaning with the contaminated water.

For all of your plumbing needs contact The Plumbing Joint Inc. at (425) 228-3204!