You rely on your water supply to deliver you clean, clear water every day. However, plumbing problems can sometimes cause your water to turn an unpleasant shade of reddish-brown. While you will most likely need the assistance of a plumber to fix the problem, it helps to understand the source of the discoloration. Here are the most common reasons why water turns rusty.

Why Is Your Water Rust-Colored?

1. Corroded Pipes

If you live in an older home, there’s a good chance the color change in your water is from rusted pipes. In the past, pipes were made from galvanized iron, which corrodes over time.

As faucets turn on and off, the continuous change in pressure dislodges the accumulating rust and releases it into the running water. Replacing your pipes with copper or plastic plumbing will resolve the issue.

2. Water Heater

Steel water heaters contain a protective coating of porcelain enamel inside to keep them from corroding. The enamel won’t last forever, and eventually, it will wear away. With its protective coating gone, steel begins to rust.

The resulting flakes and chips will settle to the bottom, where they will degrade into tiny rust particles that turn your water a reddish-brown. Have your water heater replaced to return the clarity to your water.

3. Anode Rod

The anode rod inside of your water heater can also corrode and result in rusty water. It is commonly made from metals like magnesium, aluminum, or zinc.

Anode rods are built to provide protection for the inner steel lining through the process of electrolysis, where they absorb the rust forming inside the water heater. Eventually, the anode will become completely corroded. At this point, it will not be able to prevent corrosion and will need to be replaced.

4. Break in the Water Main

Some changes in water color may be beyond your control. There is often dirt and other sediments settled at the bottom of water supply lines, and if they are stirred up, they can travel through the water and into residential faucets.

A nearby break in a main or fire hydrant could cause a sudden increase in water pressure, potentially introducing sediment into your water supply. In these cases, the discoloration should clear up on its own over time.

Has your water turned an unusual rust color? Reach out to the professionals at Pelner-Williams Plumbing & Heating in Wisconsin Rapids. Serving homeowners throughout Central and South-Central Wisconsin, their team is quick to accurately diagnose problems and provide cost-effective solutions. Whether you’re dealing with toilet leaks, outdated plumbing, or an old water heater, their team is fully equipped to provide the maintenance, repairs, and installations you need. Contact the plumbing contractor today at (715) 424-7800 to schedule a consultation. To learn more about plumbing services, visit their website.