Water is essential in every home, as we use it for many things in our daily activities. Water is used for cooking, bathing, brushing our teeth, watering our garden, cleaning the home as well as other functions. Most people use water every day in the home, and we trust to see clean and sparkling water flowing out whenever we open the taps, shower, or faucets. Seeing brown, rusty water coming out of the outlets in the home, is usually a cause for alarm for every homeowner. While it might startle you, the truth is that seeing rusty water is a fairly common occurrence in homes. This article will discuss the cause of rusty water, as well as what to do if you have such an issue.
Why Do You Have Rusty Water?
Rusty water always takes a brown-reddish or yellow color, and the first thing that most homeowners want to know is what makes the water colored. Most people usually guess that the color comes from dirt such as waste, sewage, and feces. This is a wrong assumption as rusty water is coming from sediments, minerals, and sometimes rusted pipes. The most common minerals that color water in the home are manganese and iron.
Causes of Rusty Water in The Home
Now that we know the agents responsible for colored water, it is necessary to highlight what the causes are.
- Construction: You might have rusty water in your home if there is a construction project going on nearby. The debris from the ongoing work can find its way into your water supply, and cause colored water. In such cases, the rusty water usually clears up after some hours.
- New or Damaged Pipes: Both new and damaged pipes can be caused by rusty water in the home. Change in pressure can cause rust to get into new pipes, making the water in your home color. On the other hand, a damaged pipe could be rusted or corroded, thereby leaving you with colored water.
- Water Heater: Your water heater could also be a cause of colored water in the home. If only the hot water, and not cold water in the is rusty, then the problem is from the water heater.
What to Do If You Have Rusty Water In The Home
The first thing to do if you have rusty water in your home is to remain calm. This will help you think straight and find a solution to the problem. Next, leave the water running cold for 30 minutes, and check if it clears up. If the water remains rusty after 30 minutes, check with your neighbors to know if they are dealing with the same problem. If they do, the problem is general and will be solved by the appropriate authorities. If not, then you have to contact plumbers in Sutherland Shire to check out your water source.
Conclusion
Rusty water can serve as a breeding space for bacteria and can also cause leakages in the home. Rusty water should be taken seriously and treated with swift action.
