Rusty Water

If you've noticed that your hot water has taken on a rust-like color, there could be several potential causes. Bacteria growth, pipe corrosion, and tank water heater corrosion are all possible culprits. In some cases, the hot water rust color can also be due to mineral deposits in the water supply. If the cause is due to aging plumbing, replacing those pipes or appliances could fix the issue. In other cases, hot water heater repair or replacement may be necessary. If you're not sure what's causing the rusty hot water, it's best to consult with a professional. They'll be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.

​Iron-reducing bacteria is common in water distribution systems, like your pipes and water tank. When it comes to your hot water fixtures, this is what gives your hot water its undesirable, rusty look. In many cases, you can flush out your hot water heater to get rid of the bacteria. If you have a hot water heater that's more than 10 years old, however, it may be time for a replacement. In addition, if you notice any leaks in your hot water fixtures, it's important to repair them right away as they could be an entry point for these bacteria. Rusty water can not only be unattractive, but it can also be dangerous. Legionella bacteria thrive in temperatures between 95°F and 115°F. If your hot water heater is set to this temperature range, it's more likely to experience a buildup of bacteria. This can be a problem because the bacteria can cause Legionnaires' disease, which is a serious respiratory infection. If you think your hot water heater might be contaminated with Legionella bacteria, it's important to have it replaced or repaired. You might also notice that your hot water starts to look rusty. This could be a sign of bacterial growth, so it's important to have your hot water heater checked by a professional if you see this issue.

Pipe corrosion is a major problem for hot water heaters. When copper and steel are connected together in the presence of a conductive liquid (the water in the pipe), an electrochemical reaction occurs that causes the steel to corrode at the point of connection. This process is called galvanic corrosion. It's the same thing that occurs in a simple battery. The hot water heater is effectively a "battery" made up of two different metals (copper and steel) in a conductive liquid (water). Over time, this combination will result in corrosion and eventual failure of the hot water heater. The best way to prevent this problem is to have the hot water heater regularly inspected and serviced by a qualified technician. If you do find yourself with a hot water heater that has failed due to pipe corrosion, you'll need to have it replaced or repaired. In either case, it's best to consult with a professional before taking any action.

If you've ever noticed a build-up of calcium deposits on your hot water heater, you're not alone! This is a common issue that can cause your hot water heater to work less efficiently, and may even require replacement or repair. Calcium deposits form around the heating elements in both gas and electric water heaters, making them work extra hard. This can cause them to burn out, resulting in wasted water and a shortened lifespan for your hot water heater. In some cases, mineral deposits can be removed with a simple cleaning. However, if the build-up is severe, it may be necessary to replace or repair your hot water heater. If you're unsure of how to proceed, it's always best to consult a professional. With proper care and maintenance, your hot water heater will provide years of trouble-free service.

What causes rusty water? The answer is complicated, but can be summed up in three main points. Rusty water can be caused by mineral buildup on the inside of pipes, bacterial growth, or pipe corrosion. No matter the cause, rusty water is a sign that something is wrong and should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Have you noticed any changes in your water quality recently? If so, please reach out to us for assistance. We want to help you get to the bottom of whatever is causing your rusty water and find a solution.

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