As we head into May, the days are getting longer, the weather is warming up, and families across the region are starting to spend more time outdoors. Whether you’re prepping the backyard for barbecues or planning your first lake day of the season, water tends to take center stage this time of year — whether you’re swimming in it, drinking it, or using it in your home.
But what happens when the water coming from your faucet doesn’t look quite right?
Discolored tap water can catch anyone off guard — especially when you’re just trying to fill a glass or run the dishwasher. If you’ve noticed unusual colors like yellow, brown, or even black in your water, here’s what it might mean — and when you should call Flowrite Plumbing.
1. Dark or Black Water: Likely a Magnesium Buildup
If your tap or toilet water appears black or has a dark tint, it may be due to high levels of magnesium in your system. This is especially common in areas with hard water. While it’s not usually harmful, it can affect water taste and staining. A quick check in your toilet tank can help confirm this—if the water is dark there too, you’re likely dealing with mineral buildup.
2. Reddish or Rust-Colored Water: Aging Pipes
Homes with galvanized steel or iron plumbing may experience rust or corrosion, especially as outdoor temperatures begin to fluctuate in spring and early summer. This corrosion can release flakes of iron into your water supply, giving it a brown or orange tint. It may not pose an immediate health risk, but it is a sign your plumbing may be due for an update.
3. Cloudy or Particle-Filled Water: Water Softener Issues
If your home has a water softener, sometimes resin beads can escape into the water due to equipment failure or buildup. This can result in cloudy water or a gritty texture. Regular maintenance of your softening system can help prevent this problem — and a quick service call can usually get things running properly again.
4. Well Water Challenges: Seasonal Mineral Shifts
If you’re on a private well system, seasonal changes in soil and groundwater can affect the clarity and quality of your water. During spring, melting snow and increased rainfall can stir up sediment or introduce more natural minerals, leading to water that looks murky or colored. These changes are common in rural areas and typically require professional filtration or treatment solutions.
Is It Safe to Drink?
In most cases, discolored water isn’t dangerous. However, that doesn’t mean you should ignore it. It’s always best to have your plumbing and water supply inspected by a licensed professional to identify the exact cause and make sure your water is safe to use — especially if you’re drinking it, cooking with it, or bathing in it.
Call Flowrite Plumbing to Get to the Bottom of It
Water should always be clear, clean, and safe. If you’re dealing with discolored water this spring, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Flowrite Plumbing can inspect your system, identify the issue, and recommend the best fix — whether it’s replacing aging pipes, servicing your water softener, or addressing well water contamination.
Let us help you enjoy a worry-free season with safe, reliable water in your home. Call us today to schedule a plumbing inspection!