How to Deal with Brown Tap Water

Finding brown tap water in your home can certainly be alarming, but it’s a surprisingly common issue. Whether it’s brown water from your cold tap or rusty water that unexpectedly comes when you turn on the hot tap, knowing why it's happening and what to do about it is essential.

Brown tap water can often be a tell-tale sign of one of any number of problems like rusted plumbing pipes, disturbed sediment in the mains network, or even issues with your hot water system.

Getting on top of this issue quickly helps you maintain safe, clean drinking water and protect your home’s water quality. So let’s take a look at the common causes and solutions for dealing with brown water coming from your hot and cold taps.

Causes of Brown Water from Your Tap

There are several reasons why you might encounter the dreaded “brown water from tap” issue, and each requires different solutions. Among the common causes are:

• Rusted plumbing pipe: Ageing or corroded water pipes can release rust particles that turn your tap water brown.
• Disturbed sediment: Maintenance work on the mains network, a burst water main or a reverse flow can stir up sediment, leading to discoloured, dirty water. Thankfully, in this case, it’ll often sort itself out in a few hours.
• Organic matter: Natural debris like leaves can sometimes enter the water supply, causing your water to turn brown.
• Water heater issues: A faulty hot water system can also cause brown water in your hot taps.

Understanding these causes helps you determine the right steps to avoid dirty drinking water in your home.

So, What Does Discoloured Water Mean for Your Home?

Discoloured water in your home can be more than simply inconvenient; it’s also potentially telling you there are underlying issues that need attention ASAP.

Brown or yellow tap water often means a rusty pipe or sediment disturbance in your water supply, which can affect the overall quality of your water. Using dirty tap water for essential daily tasks like drinking, cooking or cleaning can present possible health risks.

Not only is it a potential breeding ground for harmful bacteria, but the exposure to potentially toxic metals is also worth your consideration. Not only that, but brown water can stain clothes and damage appliances like your washing machine or dishwasher.

Getting on top of problems with discoloured water quickly gives you the best chance of maintaining safe, clean drinking water and preventing further damage to your home.

Temporary Fixes: What You Can Do Before Calling a Plumber

If you notice brown tap water in your home, you will likely need to call a plumber to resolve the issue. In the meantime, however, there are a few temporary fixes you can try while you wait:

• Run the cold tap: Get a full flow of cold water going for a few minutes to see if the discolouration clears up.
• Use a clear glass: Collect some water in a glass to check for tiny air bubbles or sediment.
• Avoid using hot taps: Don’t use your hot water heater until the water runs clear. Doing so runs the risk of sending sediment throughout your pipes.
• Check with the next door neighbours: See if they have the same problem with their water flow, as it could be an issue with the mains supply.

These simple steps can help you determine if the issue is temporary or needs expert assistance.

When to Call a Licensed Plumber

Despite all your efforts, if you still find yourself dealing with brown water, it’s time to call a licensed plumber.

Ongoing brown water can indicate serious issues like leaking pipes, a rusted plumbing pipe, or a faulty water heater. A professional, qualified plumber will assess your entire plumbing system, checking everything from your hot water service to your mains pipes, and diagnose the root cause. They can also inspect for any hidden leaks or issues with low water pressure that may contribute to discoloured water.

It’s important that you do not ignore brown water, as doing so can result in more severe issues. Trust a qualified and professional plumber to restore your home’s water quality safely.

Your Water Supplier’s Role in Mains Network and Pipe Maintenance

Your water supplier is a key player in maintaining the quality of your water supply.

Sometimes you can trace issues like brown water back to the mains network rather than your home’s plumbing. This could be for several reasons, from maintenance work on the mains pipes to a faulty network valve or fire hydrant testing. Any of these can disturb sediment, leading to the discolouration of your tap water.

If you and your neighbours experience the same problem, it’s worth getting in touch with your water supplier. They can check the mains supply and, if needed, resolve any issues affecting your water quality. Staying informed about your water supplier’s maintenance schedules can help you anticipate and manage potential disruptions.

Prevention is Always Better Than Cure

Avoiding issues with brown tap water in your home is all about prevention. Yes, the old “prevention is better than cure” principle applies here too.

To catch early signs of rusted pipes or leakages that might lead to water discolouration, regular plumbing inspections are a must. Replacing old, rusty pipes with durable copper piping can greatly improve the quality of your water. Keep an eye on all your taps, including the garden tap, for any signs of discolouration or sediment build-up. A well-maintained hot water service that is in tip-top shape also lowers the risk of future issues.

By staying on the front foot with your preventative maintenance, you can keep your water system running smoothly and enjoy clean, clear drinking water every day.

Keep Your Drinking Water Safe and Clean

Yes, dealing with brown tap water can absolutely be frustrating. However, taking the right steps can keep your drinking water safe and clean.

Knowing the common causes of discoloured water and trying temporary fixes is always a good starting point. If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to call a licensed plumber to address any underlying issues. Staying informed about your water supplier’s maintenance and keeping up with regular plumbing inspections can prevent future problems.

By being proactive, you can protect your home’s water quality and enjoy clear, fresh water every day.

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