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Call This Thursday to Get $50 Off Any service over $500
Do You Need a Local Plumber in Waco, TX?
Call us Now to Get $35 OFF.
Have you noticed reddish-brown or orange stains on sinks, tubs, toilets, and even clothes? Is there a metallic taste in your well water? If so, these are possible signs that your well water has so much iron. While it’s not harmful to health, too much iron in well water can cause stains on various plumbing fixtures, reduce their lifespan, and make the water unpalatable. If you rely on well water, it’s important to know the sources of iron contamination.
In this article, Mr. Rooter Plumbing looks into some of the possible reasons why well water may contain high levels of iron and what you can do about it. Remember, we are the plumbers you can count on for water testing, water filter installation, water softener installation, and more. Feel free to contact us when you need an expert to test your water and provide you with recommendations.
One of the most common reasons for iron in well water is the natural geology of the land. Iron is abundant in the earth’s crust, and as groundwater moves through soil and rock, it dissolves minerals along the way, including iron. In areas with iron-rich bedrock or soil, it's almost inevitable that well water will contain some iron. Depending on your location, it may be in the form of ferrous iron, which is clear when drawn but oxidizes into reddish-brown particles after exposure to air.
Another culprit could be your plumbing system. If your home has old iron or steel pipes, rust and corrosion may be leaching iron directly into your water. Likewise, older well casings made of metal can deteriorate over time, especially in acidic water conditions, and contaminate the water with iron. This type of iron contamination may worsen gradually, and you may notice more stains or changes in taste as time goes on. If your water pipes are exhibiting signs of corrosion, call a local plumber to repipe your home.
Sometimes, the issue isn’t just iron—it’s iron bacteria. These are microorganisms that thrive in water with high iron levels. They feed on the iron and produce reddish-brown slime, which you may find coating the inside of toilet tanks, faucets, or filters. While not dangerous to your health, iron bacteria can clog plumbing systems, reduce water pressure, and create a foul, swampy odor. If your water smells and looks off, iron bacteria may be part of the problem.
Heavy rainfall, flooding, or seasonal changes can disturb underground deposits of iron and introduce them into your well water. A shift in the water table can also open up new pathways for water to come into contact with iron-rich layers of soil or rock. If your iron problems seem to come and go, environmental changes might be to blame.
If you suspect high iron levels in your well water, the first step is professional testing. A water test can identify the type and amount of iron present. Depending on the results, there are several treatment options:
If you’re looking for a professional plumbing service to help you improve the quality of your water, look no further than Mr. Rooter Plumbing. For over 50 years, we’ve helped homeowners and business owners enjoy high-quality water. Our plumbers have the knowledge and skills to test your water and provide you with dependable solutions. Whether it be water filtration installation, regular testing, or well pump installation, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
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