Why is My Water Discolored or Murky?

Clean, clear water is something many of us take for granted. We expect it to flow freely from our taps, ready for drinking, cooking, and bathing.

There may be times, however, when you turn on the faucet and see discolored or murky water – this can lead to an uneasy feeling somewhere between fingernails on a chalkboard and the shower scene from Psycho!

It’s natural that this unexpected change in your water's appearance raises questions about its safety and the health of your plumbing system.

“As a mom, I feel like I’m not able to provide my kids with their basic needs or provide them clean bathwater,” a mother told Houston Landing from the Texas town of Sweeney where murky water has been an issue. “Are we in a third-world country?”

At Pilot Plumbing, we believe in educating our customers about these common household issues.

In this article, we'll explore the reasons behind discolored water, what it means for your home, and how to address these concerns effectively.

Water Quality in the U.S. and Aging Infrastructure

Before delving into the specific causes of discolored water, it's important to understand the broader context of water quality in the United States.

The U.S. is known for having one of the safest public water systems in the world, thanks to regulations like the Safe Drinking Water Act.

However, this doesn't mean our water supply is perfect or immune to problems.

Take Sweeney, for example, the town in Brazoria County has, according to Houston Landing, corroding infrastructure dating back to the 1940s and elevated levels of a chemical called manganese infiltrating the city’s water supply.

Despite the discolored water meeting standards set by the Texas Commission for Environmental Standards, Sweeney City Manager Lindsay Koskiniemi told the publication: “It doesn’t look safe. It doesn’t look like something you want to wash your clothes and bathe in. I can promise you, I’m not gonna drink this.”

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), about 90 percent of Americans get their tap water from community water systems, which are regularly tested and monitored for various contaminants. Despite this oversight, challenges persist:

• Aging Infrastructure: Many cities and towns across the country are grappling with outdated water infrastructure. Pipes that are decades or even a century old can contribute to water quality issues, including discoloration.
• Environmental Factors: Natural disasters, industrial accidents, and agricultural runoff can all impact water quality, sometimes leading to discoloration or contamination.
• Lead Contamination: The crisis in Flint, Michigan brought national attention to the issue of lead in drinking water. While steps have been taken to address this, it remains a concern in some areas with older plumbing systems.
• Emerging Contaminants: Scientists are increasingly aware of new threats to water quality, such as pharmaceutical residues and microplastics, which may not be visible but can affect water safety.

Given these factors, it's understandable why some people become concerned when they notice changes in their water's appearance. Discoloration, while often harmless, can be a sign of underlying issues that deserve attention.

Common Causes of Discolored Water

When faced with discolored water, it's crucial to identify the source of the problem. Here are some of the most common causes:

• Rust in Pipes: If your water has a reddish-brown tint, rust is likely the culprit. This issue is particularly common in older homes with iron pipes. Over time, these pipes corrode, releasing small particles of rust into the water supply. While generally not harmful in small amounts, excessive rust can stain fixtures and clothing. In severe cases, it may indicate that your pipes are deteriorating and need replacement.
• Sediment Buildup: Brown or yellow water often points to sediment accumulation in your pipes or water heater. This sediment can consist of various minerals, including calcium and magnesium, which are naturally present in water. Over time, these minerals can settle and build up, especially in areas with hard water. Periodic flushing of your water heater and plumbing system can help mitigate this issue.
• Municipal Water Work: Sometimes, the discoloration doesn't originating from your home at all. Work on main water lines in your area can stir up sediment and rust, causing temporary discoloration. This is often harmless and should clear up after running the water for a while. However, if it persists, it's worth contacting your local water authority for more information.
• Plumbing Repairs: Recent plumbing work in your home can lead to brief periods of discolored water. This is often due to the disturbance of sediment in the pipes during the repair process. Running the water for a few minutes should clear this up. If it doesn't, there might be an issue with the recent repairs that need addressing.
• Well Water Issues: For those using well water, changes in the water table or problems with the well itself can cause discoloration. This could be due to natural sediment, bacterial growth, or other contaminants entering the well. Regular testing and maintenance of well water systems are crucial to ensure water quality and safety.

Discolored or Murky Water: What Should You Do?

If you notice discolored water coming from your taps, don't panic. There are several steps you can take to address the issue:

• Run Cold Water: The first and simplest step is to let your cold water run for a few minutes. If the color starts to clear, it is likely a temporary issue caused by sediment in the pipes. Continue running the water until it's completely clear. This approach is often effective for minor discoloration problems.
• Check with Neighbors: If you're experiencing water discoloration, it's worth checking if your neighbors are facing similar issues. If they are, it's likely a problem with the municipal water supply rather than your home's plumbing. This information can be helpful when reporting the issue to your water provider.
• Contact Your Water Provider:  If the discoloration persists or is widespread in your area, reach out to your local water authority. They can inform you of any ongoing work, known issues, or potential contamination risks. Many providers have hotlines or websites where you can report water quality concerns and get up-to-date information.
• Schedule a Plumbing Inspection: If the problem is recurring or doesn't resolve after trying the above steps, it's time to call in the professionals. A thorough plumbing inspection can identify issues within your home's water system that might be causing the discoloration. This could include corroded pipes, malfunctioning water heaters, or problems with your filtration system if you have one.
• Consider Water Testing: If you're concerned about the safety of your water, consider having it tested. Many local health departments offer water testing services, or you can purchase home testing kits. These tests can detect a range of contaminants and give you peace of mind about your water quality.
• Install a Water Filtration System: For ongoing concerns about water quality, installing a whole-house filtration system might be a good solution. These systems can remove sediment, chlorine, and other impurities, ensuring cleaner, clearer water throughout your home.

Pilot Plumbing Can Help You Address Your Water Issues

Discolored or murky water can be disconcerting, but it's often a solvable problem. By understanding the potential causes and taking appropriate action, you can ensure that your home's water supply remains clean, clear, and safe.

Remember, while many causes of water discoloration are harmless, persistent issues should always be addressed promptly to protect your health and your plumbing system.

At Pilot Plumbing, we're committed to helping our customers in North Houston and the Greater Montgomery County area maintain healthy, efficient plumbing systems. Our family-owned business has been providing top-notch service for over 15 years, and we're equipped to handle all your plumbing needs, from minor repairs to major installations.

If you're experiencing persistent issues with your water quality, or if you simply want to ensure your plumbing system is in top shape, contact Pilot Plumbing today. Our experienced technicians are ready to provide expert diagnostics and effective solutions.