Although the water you drink in the United States is generally safe, there may be times when your tap water is contaminated and needs attention. That is why it is important to learn some of the signs that something’s wrong with your tap water and how to handle it. Keep your drinking water safe and clean!
If you’re unsure if tap water is safe to drink, the experienced team at Rooter-Man Plumbers can test it to ensure it meets safety standards. Read on for the five signs of something wrong with tap water.
1. Strange Smell
If you notice a strange smell coming from your tap water, it could be caused by chlorine added during the sanitation process. You may also detect a sulfur-like odor which can indicate the presence of bacteria. If you notice either of these smells, it’s best to have your water tested before drinking. Algae blooms in lakes and ponds can also cause a musty smell. Metallic deposits of manganese, iron, and zinc can find their way into your water supply, causing a strange odor. As for chlorine or swimming pool-like odor, this could be due to high levels of chlorine in the water. Chlorine is usually added to the public water supply to eliminate harmful microorganisms like bacteria.
If your water smells salty, then the problem may be with your water softener. You may have to turn it down. If the smell is restricted to your hot water, it could be due to corrosion in your water heater’s anode rod. To verify if this is the case, flush out your hot water tank and check the anode rod. As for a metallic or chlorine smell, check with your neighbors to see if they are experiencing the same thing. If so, you may have an issue with your water source or local water treatment system.
2. Unusual Taste
This is one of the easiest signs to detect and often the most unpleasant. You may experience a salty, sour, or metallic taste in your tap water. Corrosion can also cause your water to have an unpleasant taste. If you notice an unusual taste when drinking or cooking with your tap water, it may have been contaminated by industrial wastewater or agricultural runoff. Metallic deposits like iron and zinc can also affect the taste of your water and are especially common if you live in an area with hard water. Investing in a filter system can help remove these contaminants.
On the other hand, if you are experiencing a salty taste, it could be due to the presence of high levels of sodium in your water softener. Over time, these ions build up and can make their way into your drinking water. If this is the case, you may need to adjust the settings on your softener.
No matter what the issue is with your tap water, it’s important to identify the source of contamination and address it promptly. If you’re concerned about your tap water, contact the team at Rooter-Man Plumbers. We’ll test your water and provide a solution.
3. Cloudy or Murky Water
Your tap water should ideally not have any discoloration or color at all. Murky, cloudy water is another sign that something might be wrong with your tap water. This cloudy appearance could be caused by the presence of too much air in the water supply due to disturbances in plumbing systems or other sources, such as groundwater runoff. It may also be as a result of mineral deposits in the pipes.
If your water has a yellow or brownish tint, it could be due to rust particles from corroded plumbing fixtures and pipes. If you suspect this is the cause, you’ll need to call a plumber who can flush out your system and inspect for any damage or leaks. Hard water could also give your water a cloudy or white appearance. This is caused by high levels of calcium and magnesium, which can be removed using a water softener.
4. Your Water Leaves Behind Residue
One of the most common signs that something is wrong with your tap water is residue. If you find that your dishes, clothing, or skin are left with a powdery residue after washing, this could be due to hard water. High levels of calcium or magnesium in the water can leave behind these deposits and make it difficult to rinse off the soap and other cleaning products. Investing in a water softener can help remove these minerals, leaving you with clean and residue-free water.
If your water leaves behind brownish stains on your sink, tub, or faucets when it dries, this could be caused by iron deposits. In this case, your pipes may have become rusted, corroded, or clogged. You should contact a plumber to inspect your plumbing and diagnose the issue. If your home is old and the pipes are in bad condition, you may need to have them replaced.
5. Dirt or Sand in The Water
If you have dirt or sand particles in your tap water, this could be a sign of an old plumbing system or clogged pipes. Depending on where you live, these particles could be due to sediment buildup which accumulates over time and can travel into your home’s water supply. If you notice sand or dirt when running your tap, you should contact a plumber to inspect your plumbing system and pipes. In the meantime, a point-of-use sediment filter can help filter out these particles and improve the quality of your drinking water.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important that you get your water tested by a professional so they can determine what is causing the issue and how best to address it. With the right proactive measures and regular maintenance, you can ensure that your tap water stays safe for you and your family.
RooterMan Plumbers Can Help
If your tap water is showing any of the signs discussed above, don’t hesitate to call Rooter-Man for help. Our plumbing experts can inspect your pipes and diagnose the issue to provide an efficient and cost-effective solution. We use only the best equipment and materials to make sure that your water is safe and clean. Contact us today at 281.351.4422 to learn more about our plumbing services!
