When you turn on your faucet, you expect the water to flow out clear and free of any hazards. Yet, sometimes, you’ll notice the color or taste is off for a reason likely associated with your plumbing system. Here are three colors that suggest there’s a problem — and how a plumber can help you handle each one.

Common Tap Water Colors & What They Mean

1. Brown

Murky hot water that appears brown, red, or yellow can be indicative of sediment buildup at the base of your water heater. Hiring a plumber to flush the heater at least once a year protects the quality of your hot water supply. However, if the water has a rusty finish whether it’s cold or hot, the problem may be related to iron and manganese in the public water supply. This discoloration is generally temporary, and you may be able to clear it up by running cold water for about 10 minutes. To be safe, don’t consume water or do laundry until the water is completely clear, as the rust particles may ruin your fabric.

2. Milky

If the water has a milky or cloudy finish, it’s usually due to air bubbles somewhere in the plumbing system. These may occur if local construction is going on or if the outdoor temperature changes dramatically. The air bubbles aren’t a safety risk, and the water is safe to drink or use if you wish. However, many homeowners may elect to wait until it clears up. You can try flushing the tap by running cold water for approximately 10 minutes. Sometimes, homes with hard water may also experience cloudy residue; you can ask your plumber about installing a water softener to reverse this issue.

3. Blue

Blue- or green-tinted water is a sign there’s too much copper in your household water supply. Excess copper can pose a safety threat to humans and may lead to symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting if consumed. The problem typically manifests if your home’s copper pipes are corroded. Over time, the copper dissolves and permeates the water. If your copper pipes are more than two decades old, it’s best to have a plumbing contractor repipe the property or repair the area that’s corroded.

Are you concerned about the color of your home’s water supply? Discoloration could indicate a problem that requires the assistance of a professional plumber. Fortunately, you can trust the experts at Martin Plumbing in Crossville, TN, to determine the source of your issue and resolve it. Providing services throughout Cumberland County since 1993, the plumbing contractors handle everything from drain and sewer cleaning to water heater services. Visit them online to learn more, or call (931) 484-0866 to schedule service today.