If you’re suddenly noticing rusty water instead of crystal clear water coming from your home’s water fixtures, it’s not a reason to panic. There are lots of reasons that water can become discolored. The color and taste of your home’s water are clues as to what the root of the issue is.
If you notice rust in your water, call the pros at Estes right away. Our team can help diagnose and find the source of the problem.
Causes of Rusty Water
Iron compounds in your water cause it to appear rusty in color. There are several reasons for iron to appear in your water, and sometimes rust is present regardless of the temperature of your water. Here are some of the most common causes of rusty water:
- Plumbing system requires maintenance
- Depressurization of the system
- Water heater sediment
- Water main break
- Flushing of the water hydrant
- Damage from construction
- Iron pipes are corroded
- Street sweeping
- Oxidation of bacteria
Main breaks and flushing fire hydrants are usually reported by your local water company. Check with them and neighbors to see if you’re the only one experiencing rusty water before calling a plumber. If you are near a main break, the water will usually clear up in a few hours. Be sure to check local media to see if there is a boil water advisory.
If you find that the rusty water is confined to your house, and it only appears when the water is hot, that suggests that something else is wrong with your plumbing.
Common Solutions for Rusty Water
The pros at Estes Services have helped Atlanta customers get rid of their rusty water for years. Trust our team of plumbers to figure out why the water is rusty and how to fix it right the first time.
Replacing Your Hot Water Heater
The most common cause of rusty water is sediment buildup in the bottom of your hot water heater. Sediment is dislodged when the tap is opened, and water swirls around in the tank. The sediment flows through your pipes and out of your tap. If the sediment can’t get out of the tap and is settling in your heater, it could be a sign that you need a new water heater.
Installing a new water heater will be less expensive in the long run. Upgrading to a new energy-efficient or tankless heater can save you on utility bills as well. Talk to the pros at Estes to see which model is best for you.
Updating Your Plumbing System
In many older homes, the reason your water is rusty could be in your pipes. Deciding whether to replace your home’s outdated plumbing is an expensive decision, but not as expensive as dealing with water damage when an old pipe bursts. Call Estes to have your system inspected and have any damaged or rusty pipes replaced.
Sterilizing Your Water Heater
Oxidized bacteria is another reason for rust in your water. It uses iron as a food source, resulting in iron oxide, also known as rust. This is a common problem for people on well water. Oxidized bacteria can infest in a hot water heater. A plumbing professional will know how to sterilize your water heater and eliminate bacteria that causes your water to appear rusty.
Trust Estes to Make Your Water Clear Again
Since 1949, Estes has helped in and around Atlanta with plumbing issues of all kinds. If you’re sure you’re rusty water is only in your home, trust the pros at Estes to get clear water flowing in your house again. Contact Estes Services today!
