If you take a closer look at a glass of tap water and you can see particulate matter and flakes floating, it can be a worrying experience. Are these suspended particles harmful and where do they come from?
The Particle Colors are a Clue
Aside from laboratory water testing to get a true picture of the makeup of your tap water, there are some clues depending on the color:
Brown or Orange: These are usually sand or dust particles if you receive your water from a private well. Municipal water users should take a closer look at the particles to see if they are irregularly shaped because this can be rust from corroded water mains. If the flakes are pure brown, this may mean that an installed water softener is malfunctioning.
Tan or White: These particulates are usually calcium or magnesium carbonate minerals that are found in hard water. They can be flushed through the plumbing system from the water heater and the only way to remove them is to install an ion-exchange water softener.
Black: These are usually smaller specks that may be coming from a failing component in the plumbing or water filtration system. If the particles are rubbery, they may be breaking away from a degraded gasket or faucet washer. If the particles can be smeared on your fingers, the source may be a failing supply line.
These Particles are Not a Threat to Health
It’s important to state this clearly, if you see particulates in your water it’s natural to worry about the health consequences. But, they are a significant risk to a home in the following ways:
Brown or Orange: These particles can make the tap water taste and smell bad and they may be causing hidden damage to your plumbing pipes.
Tan or White: These are a sign of hard water which can form a layer of scale in the pipes and water using appliances over time. As the scale becomes thick the water pressure may drop and the heating elements take longer to heat the water. Overworked appliances tend to consume more energy and they have a lower than expected lifespan.
Black: These particles are a sure sign that there is something failing in the water treatment or plumbing system. Identifying the source of the problem and fixing it quickly should be a priority to prevent further damage and higher repair bills.
How to Remove These Particles
There are several ways to remove these particulates:
Brown or Orange: If the source is sand or dirt from a gravel well, they can be removed with a screen replacement, or if the source is a sandstone well, replace the liner. If the source is rust, it’s time to contact a professional plumber to identify and fix the problem. If the water is coming from the city water main, contact the local water department to report the problem.
Tan or White: There are two proven approaches. First, get the water heater serviced, repaired, or replaced as necessary. Next, install a water softener to remove the dissolved hard water minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and iron.
Black: If you’re confident in your DIY plumbing skills you may be able to find and repair or replace the gasket, washer, or supply line that’s causing the problem. If you lack the skills or time to do this contact a professional plumber to do this work for you.
If you’re concerned about your water quality, contact your local water treatment specialist.