Your water may be dirty primarily because your water supply pipes are corroding. As these pipes age, their internal protective coating wears off, leading to corrosion from the inside.
Understanding Corroding Pipes and Water Discoloration
When the protective lining inside your water pipes deteriorates, the metal beneath becomes exposed and begins to corrode. This process releases tiny, rusty-colored particles directly into your water supply. These particles are what cause the visible discoloration in your tap water.
- Cause: Aging water supply pipes
- Mechanism:
- The protective coating inside the pipes wears away.
- The exposed pipe material begins to corrode from the inside.
- Rusty-colored pieces break off from the corroding pipes.
- These pieces mix with your water supply, causing discoloration.
- Appearance: The dirty water typically exhibits a red, brown, or orange tinge due to the iron rust.
Characteristics of Water Dirty from Pipe Corrosion
If your water discoloration is due to corroding pipes, you might observe the following characteristics:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Common Colors | Red, brown, or orange, indicating the presence of rust particles. |
| Primary Cause | Deterioration and corrosion of internal water supply pipes. |
| Underlying Issue | Aging infrastructure where protective pipe coatings have worn off. |
| Appearance | Can range from a slight tint to a noticeable cloudy or rusty appearance. |
What to Do If You Suspect Pipe Corrosion
If you observe red, brown, or orange discolored water, especially if your home has older plumbing, corroding pipes are a likely culprit. Addressing this issue typically involves:
- Avoid Consumption: While often not immediately harmful, it's best to avoid drinking or cooking with visibly discolored water.
- Contact Your Water Provider: In some cases, the issue might stem from the municipal water main, especially if neighbors are experiencing similar problems.
- Consult a Plumber: For issues within your property's plumbing system, a qualified plumber can inspect your pipes, identify the source of corrosion, and recommend solutions such as pipe flushing, repair, or replacement.
Understanding the cause of your dirty water is the first step towards a clean and safe water supply.
