Why is my water brown, rusty, cloudy, or smelly?

As a licensed master plumber I often get questions about water quality issues. If you’ve noticed that your water is brown, rusty, cloudy, or smelly, we want to address water quality problems promptly. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, from old plumbing systems to sediment build-up. Here’s a detailed guide on why your water might be discolored or foul-smelling and what we can do about it.

Common Causes of Water Quality Issues

Sediment and Mineral Build-Up
Over time, minerals and sediments can accumulate in your water heater, leading to discolored water. When these sediments are disturbed, they can mix with your water supply, causing it to appear brown or rusty.

• Regularly flush your water heater to remove sediment build-up.
• Install a sediment filter to prevent particles from entering your system.
• Consider using a water softener to reduce mineral deposits.

Corroded Pipes
Old, galvanized pipes are prone to corrosion, which can cause rust particles to flake off and enter your water supply. This often results in brown or rusty water.

• Inspect your plumbing system for signs of corrosion.
• Replace old, galvanized pipes with modern materials like PEX or copper.
• Schedule regular maintenance checks with Pipecraft Plumbing to catch early signs of corrosion.

Water Heater Issues
A malfunctioning water heater can also be a source of discolored or smelly water. 

• Replace the anode rod in your water heater regularly.
• Schedule professional water heater maintenance and inspections.
• Consider upgrading to a new, more efficient water heater.

Addressing Cloudy Water

Air Bubbles
Cloudy water is often caused by air bubbles trapped in your plumbing system. This is usually harmless and clears up after a few moments.

• Run the tap for a few minutes to see if the water clears.
• Check for any recent plumbing work that might have introduced air into the system.
• If the issue persists, contact a plumber to check for underlying problems.

Sediment and Particles
If your water remains cloudy, it might be due to sediment or particles in the water supply.

• Install a whole-house filtration system to remove sediment and particles.
• Regularly clean faucet aerators and showerheads to prevent build-up.
• Schedule a professional plumbing inspection to identify the source of the sediment.

Dealing with Smelly Water

Rotten Egg Smell
A common cause of smelly water is hydrogen sulfide gas, which produces a distinct “rotten egg” odor. This can occur due to bacterial growth in your water heater or within your plumbing system.

• Flush and disinfect your water heater to eliminate bacteria, you may need to replace your water heater completely.
• Replace the anode rod with one made of zinc or aluminum to reduce bacterial growth.
• Install a water filtration system to remove hydrogen sulfide from your water supply.

Musty or Earthy Smell
Musty or earthy odors in your water can be caused by organic matter, such as decaying leaves or algae, entering your water supply.

• Inspect your well or water source for signs of contamination.
• Install a UV water purifier to kill bacteria and other organic contaminants.
• Regularly clean and maintain your water storage tanks.

Professional Solutions

Water Testing
If you’re experiencing persistent water quality issues, it’s essential to have your water tested. A comprehensive water test can identify the presence of minerals, bacteria, and other contaminants, providing a clear understanding of what’s causing the problem.

• Contact a professional water testing service for accurate results.
• Use the test results to determine the best course of action.
• Schedule regular water testing to monitor your water quality over time.

Pipe Replacement
In many cases, the solution to persistent water quality issues is to replace old or damaged pipes. Galvanized pipes, in particular, are known for causing rust and corrosion.

• Hire a licensed plumber to inspect your plumbing system and recommend pipe replacement options.
• Consider repiping your home with modern materials like PEX or copper.
• Schedule a consultation with Pipecraft Plumbing to discuss your repiping needs.

Water Heater Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your water heater is crucial to preventing sediment build-up and bacterial growth.

• Schedule annual water heater inspections and maintenance with a licensed plumber.
• Flush your water heater regularly to remove sediment and minerals.
• Replace old water heaters with new, energy-efficient models to ensure optimal performance.

Dealing with brown, rusty, cloudy, or smelly water can be a frustrating experience for homeowners. However, with the right approach and professional help from Pipecraft Plumbing in Arvada, you can address these issues effectively. Whether it’s flushing your water heater, replacing old pipes, or installing a water filtration system, taking proactive steps can significantly improve your water quality.

At Pipecraft Plumbing, our licensed, knowledgeable, and trustworthy experts are dedicated to providing prompt and reliable service. If you’re experiencing water quality issues, don’t hesitate to contact us for professional advice and solutions. Your home’s plumbing system deserves the best care, and we’re here to ensure it stays in top condition.