Water Discolouration at Home: Is It Serious and What You Can Do About It

Water is supposed to be colourless and odourless. Going by this logic, water discolouration is indeed serious and can be a sign that your home might have issues that require immediate attention.

The water that’s flowing out of your fixtures is considered discoloured if it’s yellowish, brown, or even black and each colour can be indicative of different potential problems. Understanding the causes of water discolouration is crucial for identifying the necessary steps to address and rectify the issue.

Why Does Water Discolouration Happen?



Water discolouration can stem from several sources. For instance, corroded pipes can be a common problem in older homes with iron or steel plumbing. Over time, rust can build up in these pipes, mix with water, and result in a reddish or brownish tint in the water. Another potential cause of water discolouration is sediment buildup in the water supply. This can occur after water main breaks or during routine maintenance by local water authorities. 

Water with high mineral content often referred to as "hard water," can also sometimes be discoloured, particularly if your home relies on a private well. Lastly, organic materials such as decaying plant matter or algae can enter the water supply, especially in rural areas, leading to green or blue discolouration. Identifying the cause of discolouration is key to starting the process of clearing the problem. 

If you ever experience discoloured water at home, call us here at Mains Plumbers ASAP. We are plumbers Dunedin homeowners trust, and we can help you navigate this problem much more quickly and easily.

What Potential Complications and Damages Can Discoloured Water Bring About?

Before we talk about how to address water discolouration, it’s important to discuss why this issue must be addressed with urgency. First, discoloured water can pose serious health risks. For instance, rust and sediment can harbour harmful bacteria, making the water unsafe for drinking or cooking. Moreover, ingesting or coming into contact with contaminated water can lead to various health issues, particularly for those with compromised immune systems. Additionally, certain minerals like manganese, which can be present in discoloured water, can be toxic in high concentrations and may pose long-term health risks.

Beyond health concerns, discoloured water can also cause significant damage to your home's plumbing and appliances. Sediments and minerals can clog filters and reduce the efficiency of household appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines. Over time, the buildup of these particles can corrode or damage water heaters, pipes, and plumbing fixtures, resulting in costly repairs or replacements. Lastly, discoloured water can stain sinks, bathtubs, and laundry, creating additional frustration and expense for homeowners.

To avoid these complications, get in touch with a reliable plumbing service provider near you. For those in the Otago Region, Mains Plumbers is a name you can trust for any plumbing concern.

What You Should Do About Discoloured Water?

If you encounter water discolouration in your home, follow these steps:

Identify the Cause

Start by inspecting your plumbing system for signs of corrosion or leaks. As mentioned, rust is a common cause of discoloured water. Additionally, have your water tested for minerals, bacteria, and other contaminants. Testing can help pinpoint the exact cause of the discolouration, be it the presence of rust, sediment, or other substances.

Replace Corroded Pipes

If corroded pipes are identified as the source of the discolouration, replace them with new pipes made of non-corrosive materials such as PVC or PEX. It's advisable to hire professional plumbers like Main Plumbers for this task to ensure the procedure is done correctly and to prevent future issues. Investing in new plumbing can significantly improve water quality and prevent further damage to your home's infrastructure.

Install Water Filtration Systems

Installing a water filtration system can help remove sediments, minerals, and other contaminants from your water supply. If you have the budget for it, a whole-house filtration system provides comprehensive protection to your household by filtering all the water entering your home. Meanwhile, point-of-use filters can be installed on individual taps and appliances for additional protection. These systems can improve the taste and clarity of your water and ensure that it is safe for consumption and use.

Carry Out Regular Maintenance

To prevent the buildup of sediments and reduce the risk of discolouration, make sure to perform regular maintenance procedures for your plumbing. In particular, periodically flushing your home's plumbing can help remove any accumulated particles within the pipes. Additionally, ensure that water softeners and other filtration systems are regularly maintained and serviced to keep them functioning effectively.

Check with Local Authorities

If you notice persistent water discolouration, it may be necessary to report the issue to your local water authority. They can investigate whether there are broader problems within the water system that might be causing the discolouration. Follow any advisories or instructions from local authorities regarding water safety and quality to ensure your household's health and safety.

Use Alternative Water Sources



In cases where discoloured water poses a health risk, consider using alternative water sources for drinking and cooking. You can purchase bottled water as a temporary solution until the issue is resolved. Using alternative water sources ensures that you and your family have access to safe and clean water while addressing the underlying problem.

Monitor and Document

Keep records of instances of water discolouration, including dates, times, and any actions taken. Monitoring changes in water quality can help plumbers identify patterns or recurring issues. Additionally, proper documentation can provide valuable information if you need to report the problem to authorities or seek professional assistance. 

By understanding the causes of discoloured water and taking proactive steps to address the issue, you can ensure a safe and clean water supply for your household. Allow our team of professional plumbers at Mains Plumber to assist you. In addition to addressing plumbing issues and offering 24/7 emergency plumbing services in Dunedin, we can also do gas fitting and drainlaying services.