Top Three Reasons on Why Water is Discolored

Water is the source of health. Our Chattanooga water is something that is taken for granted each day. Water is something that is sipped or gulped throughout the day for the purpose of feeling healthy. Despite this, there are often times when unfiltered water becomes discolored or cloudy. Below is a list of three reasons as to why the water may be discolored.

1. Copper Pipe Problem

The result of a copper pipe problem is green-bluish water. Copper can leave behind a green hue as water evaporates in pipes. This can eventually build up to leave behind a large stain. This should be fixed immediately if noticed as it can cause stomach issues when it is digested in large quantities.

2. Iron Bacteria

Iron feeding bacteria, though being harmless, can create a red hue in the pipes. Iron is a remaining element that is often associated with rust. Be careful when replacing the pipes though. Iron and magnesium which as two compounds associated with rusting, tend to stain clothing. This stain will only be able to be removed with a rust remover. Despite iron not being extremely harmful to the body, there are other negative implications. This includes the iron having a reaction to cooking. Vegetables or any other important food groups will have a metallic after taste that will linger.

3. Galvanized Pipe Problems

A galvanized pipe problem is much like iron bacteria. Pipes, in general, are shaped out of iron or steel. As a precaution to protect the pipe from rusting and contaminating the water, a layer of zinc is applied. However, this is not a long term solution as over time the zinc layer begins to wear off. This means that water will directly meet iron and create a rusty solution when it is being used out of the faucet. Rusting is often associated with colors such as yellow, red, or even brown. If any of these colors are shown, the best solution is to replace the pipe.

Water discoloration is often associated with aging pipes. If water is even noticed to be of a different color other than clear, be sure to replace the pipe immediately. The discoloration may be associated with minor problems such as rust as well as major problems such as mold. The variations vary in severity; however, it is important to be aware of the possible implications that are associated with discolored water in your Chattanooga home.

If your water is discolored in your Chattanooga, TN home, call Metro Sewer and Plumbing at (423) 855-0967 today, and we’ll solve the problem for you!