Have you noticed that the water running out of your tap is discolored? Perhaps the water is yellow or orange in color but clears up after a first draw, or maybe your tap water has become cloudy in recent days. Discolored water can come from a variety of sources, some of which render your water unsafe to drink. So yes, you should be concerned when your tap water becomes cloudy or discolored.
Mr. Rooter Plumbing offers a wide range of services aimed at improving water quality in homes. These include leak detection, pipe repair, water filtration installation, and more. In this post, we’ll walk you through some of the reasons why your tap water may turn cloudy or discolored and what you.
What Causes Cloudy Water?
Cloudy or milky-looking water is often caused by tiny air bubbles trapped in the water supply. This commonly happens after plumbing repairs, water main work, or sudden changes in water pressure. If air is the cause, the cloudiness will clear from the bottom of the glass upward within a few seconds after pouring it.
However, persistent cloudiness may point to sediment in the water. Minerals like calcium and magnesium are common in areas with hard water. While hard water isn’t typically a health hazard, it can cause buildup inside pipes and fixtures, reduce appliance efficiency, and leave spots on dishes and glassware. Installing a water softener can help address water hardness and ensure your home is supplied with softened water. A reputable plumbing repair service can test your water and help you install an effective water softener.
Why Is My Water Discolored?
Water discoloration can appear in several shades, each indicating a different issue:
Brown or Yellow Water
This is often caused by rust or iron in the water supply. Corroded pipes or disturbances in the municipal water system can loosen sediment, causing temporary discoloration. If the issue affects only your home, aging plumbing may be the culprit.
Reddish Water
High iron content is usually responsible. While not necessarily harmful, iron can stain sinks, tubs, and laundry.
Green or Blue Water
This can indicate copper corrosion in your plumbing system. Corroded copper pipes may leak over time, so this issue should be addressed by a plumber in Columbia, SC.
Black Water
Dark water may be caused by manganese, deteriorating rubber washers, or severe pipe corrosion.
Should You Be Worried?
In many cases, cloudy or slightly discolored water is temporary—especially if it occurs after nearby construction or maintenance work. Running your taps for several minutes can sometimes flush out loose sediment.
However, you should be concerned if:
- The discoloration persists for more than a day
- You notice a metallic or unusual taste
- There is a foul odor
- Multiple fixtures are affected
- You experience reduced water pressure
- Staining appears in sinks, tubs, or laundry
Persistent issues may indicate pipe corrosion, sediment buildup, or problems with your water heater. In some cases, aging plumbing systems can release particles into your water supply, affecting both safety and efficiency. Get in touch with a plumbing repair service if you notice persistent water quality issues.
Could It Be Your Water Heater?
If discolored water only appears when you run hot water, your water heater may be the source. Sediment buildup inside the tank can cause rusty or cloudy hot water. Flushing the water heater annually helps remove sediment and extend its lifespan.
How to Protect Your Home
If you’re unsure about the cause of cloudy or discolored water, it’s best to schedule a professional inspection. A licensed plumber can check your pipes, test your water quality, and recommend solutions such as pipe replacement, water heater maintenance, or installing a water filtration system.
Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Water Filtration Installation
If you’re concerned about the quality of your water, get in touch with Mr. Rooter Plumbing for water filtration installation. Installing a water filter improves your water quality, protects your appliances from sediment buildup, and eliminates reliance on bottled water. Our plumbers have worked with all types of water filtration systems and have the tools to test your water before selecting a suitable filter for your home. Call us now to book an appointment for water filtration installation.
