Your water might have a funny color primarily due to the disturbance of harmless deposits that have built up over time within your water pipes.
Understanding Discolored Water
Water changing color can be a surprising sight, but it's often a common and usually harmless occurrence. The main reason for discolored water is the stirring up of natural minerals and sediments that accumulate inside water pipes over many years. When these deposits are disturbed, they can temporarily mix with the water, giving it a distinct hue.
Common Funny Colors and Their Causes
The specific color of your water can often give a clue about what's causing the discoloration.
| Funny Water Color | Primary Cause (from Reference) | What It Usually Is |
|---|---|---|
| Brown/Black | Disturbance of harmless deposits accumulated in water pipes. | Often rust or sediment from iron pipes, stirred up by changes in water flow. |
| Orange | Disturbance of harmless deposits accumulated in water pipes. | Similar to brown, typically indicates iron particles or rust, but in different concentrations or states. |
| White/Milky | Chalk deposits OR very small air bubbles that make the water look milky. | Air trapped in the water supply, dissolving minerals like calcium carbonate (chalk), or even plumbing work nearby. |
Why Do These Disturbances Occur?
The "disturbance" of these deposits can happen for several reasons, often related to changes in the water distribution system:
- Routine Maintenance and Repairs: Work on water mains, such as flushing, pipe repairs, or new connections, can dislodge accumulated sediment.
- Sudden Changes in Water Flow: Events like the opening of a fire hydrant, a burst pipe in the area, or even unusually high water demand can cause water to flow faster or in a different direction, stirring up deposits.
- Aging Infrastructure: Older pipes are more prone to mineral buildup and corrosion, which can lead to discoloration when disturbed.
- New Installations or Renovations: Work on your property's plumbing can also temporarily dislodge sediments within your internal pipes.
What Should You Do If Your Water Is Discolored?
While discolored water is typically harmless (as stated in the reference, these deposits are generally harmless), it's understandable to be concerned. Here's what you can do:
- Don't Panic: Remember that the cause is usually harmless deposits.
- Run Your Cold Water Tap: Open the cold water tap (preferably one closest to your water meter, like a utility sink or bathtub) and let it run for 15-20 minutes or until the water runs clear. This helps flush out the disturbed water.
- Avoid Using Hot Water: Don't run hot water or use appliances that draw hot water (like dishwashers or washing machines) until the cold water runs clear. This prevents sediment from entering your water heater.
- Check with Neighbors: If the issue is widespread, it indicates a problem with the main water supply, not just your internal plumbing.
- Contact Your Water Provider: If the problem persists for more than a few hours, or if you have any health concerns, contact your local water utility. They can provide information on current work in your area or investigate the cause.
In most cases, discolored water is a temporary issue that resolves itself once the disturbance in the pipes settles.
