What Should You Do If You See Red Flakes in Your Tap Water?
Plumbing is designed to develop as little rust as possible. Rust forms when iron in the pipes oxidizes, leading to the development of rust particles that can contaminate your water supply. Unfortunately, even the best seals can’t hold up against corrosion forever, especially if your home has metal plumbing. Steel, galvanized metal, and copper can all develop internal corrosion over time, but it can be impossible to spot from the outside until it’s eaten through the side of a pipe or connection. The first signs are often:
Red flakes in the water,
Rust around your water heater, or
A metallic taste.
Rust can appear in both hot and cold water, so it's important to test both to identify the source.
Take these three steps when you get your first hint that rust might be forming out of sight:
UNDERSTANDING RUST PARTICLES IN WATER
Rust in water is a common issue that can significantly affect the quality and safety of your drinking water. Rusty water can pose potential health risks, making it crucial to identify its source, whether it is from home plumbing or the public water supply. Rust particles often enter your water supply through corroded pipes, aging water heaters, or other deteriorating components within your plumbing system. These particles can give your tap water a reddish hue and a metallic taste, making it unappealing and potentially unsafe to drink. Understanding the causes and effects of rust in water is crucial for addressing the issue and ensuring a safe and healthy water supply for your household.
WHAT ARE RUST FLAKES IN WATER?
Rust flakes in water are small, reddish-brown particles that can appear in your tap water due to the presence of iron oxide. These flakes are usually a sign of corroding metal pipes or a faulty water heater. When iron pipes corrode, they release iron oxide particles into the water supply, which can cause the water to appear rusty or discolored. Rust flakes can also be a sign of a larger issue with your water supply, such as a water main break or a problem with the municipal water treatment plant. If you notice these flakes, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly to prevent further contamination and potential damage to your plumbing system.
CAUSES AND EFFECTS OF RUST
Rust in water can stem from various sources, including corroded pipes, malfunctioning water heaters, and high levels of iron deposits in the soil. Maintaining the water heater tank is crucial to prevent rust and ensure the longevity of your system. Ferric iron, a common sediment type, can contribute to rust in well water, leading to a range of problems. Sediment buildup in the water tank can exacerbate these issues, making regular maintenance practices like draining and flushing the tank essential to prevent leaks and corrosion. Rust particles can alter the taste of your water, leaving it with an unpleasant metallic flavor. They can also cause unsightly stains on clothing and fixtures, and over time, lead to significant wear and tear on your plumbing system. In severe cases, rust in water can pose a health risk, particularly for individuals with certain medical conditions. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to maintaining a safe and efficient water supply.
DANGERS OF RUST PARTICLES IN WATER
Rust particles in water can pose a health risk to you and your family. While iron oxide is not typically toxic, high levels of rust particles in water can cause gastrointestinal issues, skin and hair problems, and discoloration of clothing and fixtures. Additionally, rust particles can corrode pipes and appliances, leading to reduced water pressure and increased risk of waterborne diseases. If you notice rust flakes in your water, it’s essential to address the issue promptly to prevent further health risks. You may need to replace corroded pipes, install a whole house filter, or contact your local water authority to report the problem. Taking these steps can help ensure your water quality remains safe and your plumbing system functions efficiently.
NARROW DOWN WHICH TAPS HAVE RUST PARTICLES.
Rust shouldn’t develop everywhere at once. In fact, if it does, that could be a sign that something is wrong with the municipal water system or your main water line. Instead, test out the taps throughout your home by checking both hot and cold water. Hot water taps are far more likely to develop rust because the heated water aggravates oxidation and, through it, corrosion.
If you suspect the issue is with the municipal water system, contact your local water authority to report the problem and gain insight into any ongoing maintenance activities.
If there are just one or two offenders, you may be able to get a simple fix by talking to a plumber over the phone or scrubbing out the faucet.
GET YOUR WATER HEATER AND PIPES INSPECTED.
Once you suspect there’s rust, get a final answer to remove all doubt. It is crucial to inspect the water heater tank for rust and sediment buildup, as these can lead to brown hot water and other water quality issues. The faster plumbers can remove and replace rusty pipes, the less time the rust has to spread. Fast action also means you’re much less likely to have a leak and water damage.
DECIDE IF YOU'RE LOOKING FOR A FIX THAT WILL LAST SEVERAL YEARS OR A LIFETIME.
Replacing rusted metal pipes gives your plumbing several years before new rust is likely to start forming again. Maintaining or replacing the water tank is also crucial to prevent rust and other issues in the long term. But if you know you’re living in your forever home, this could be a good opportunity to start replacing the cast iron and steel with copper.
PREVENTION AND MAINTENANCE
Preventing rust in your water supply involves regular maintenance and proactive measures. Annual testing of your water quality is essential, especially for well water, to detect any signs of contamination early. Regularly maintaining the water heater tank by draining and flushing it can prevent sediment buildup, corrosion, and leaks. Regularly inspecting pipes, pumps, and storage tanks for signs of wear can help identify potential issues before they escalate. Maintaining the water tank is crucial to prevent rust and other serious problems. Investing in high-quality well components and installing a whole house filter can significantly reduce the risk of rust and other contaminants entering your water supply. Additionally, using a water softener can help minimize the presence of rust particles, ensuring better water quality for your household.
WHEN TO CALL A PROFESSIONAL
If you suspect rusty water in your supply, it’s crucial to seek professional assistance to identify and address its source. A qualified professional can conduct thorough water filtration services to protect your household from harmful elements and examine your water supply system to pinpoint the exact cause of corrosion. They can recommend the best solutions to address the issue and provide a detailed quote for the necessary repairs or replacements. Relying on home remedies for water treatment can be a temporary fix, but professional intervention ensures a long-term solution and maintains the quality of your water supply.
CONCLUSION
Rust in water is a serious issue that requires prompt attention and action. By understanding the causes and effects of rust, taking preventive measures, and knowing when to call a professional, you can ensure a safe and healthy water supply for your household. Regular maintenance and inspections should be part of your routine to detect and address any issues early. Consider investing in a whole house filter and a water softener to protect your water supply from rust and other contaminants, ensuring the best water quality for your home.