Pro TIps
Why is My Water That Color and What Does it Mean?
It’s a beautiful morning, you turn on your faucet to get some water for your coffee pot and it’s a rusty brown color. Or maybe even blue or green. Of course, panic sets in. Why is my water discolored and what should I do next?
Water should always be clear. If you notice any signs that it isn’t, this is the time to take action.
Check with your neighbors first. It’s easier if you can identify if this is a known problem or an issue isolated to your home. Run your water for a few moments to see if it clears. Check your hot and cold water separately.
Why is my water rust colored or yellow?
You might notice a color to your water in the morning or after being away for an extended period of time. There are a variety of reasons for this.
Corroded pipes
This is especially common in older Pittsburgh homes. If your pipes have minor corrosion, there are options for repair, but severe corrosion might lead to the need for a total replacement.
Sediment buildup in your water heater
This results from mineral accumulation (iron, calcium) settling at the tank bottom, leading to corrosion. If your cold water runs clear, it could mean it’s your water heater.
Municipal water main work
There could be work going on in your area which is causing your water to be discolored. Check with your local water authority.
Galvanized pipe deterioration
These pipes were commonly installed in homes built before the 1980s and they typically last 40-70 years. They deteriorate from the inside out as their protective zinc coating erodes.
Why is my water green or blue?
Copper pipe corrosion
This occurs when acidic water (low pH), high oxygen levels, or high-velocity water causes the metal to oxidize and deteriorate. It can be fixed by replacing corroded sections with new copper or PEX, treating water with a pH neutralizer and repairing leaks.
Low pH/acidic water eating away at pipes
Low pH water, (below 6.5–7.0) corrodes metal plumbing, specifically copper and galvanized steel. Solutions include installing neutralizing filters (calcite/magnesium oxide), soda ash feeders or replacing damaged pipes with resistant materials like PEX or PV.
Homes with newer copper plumbing
Blue water in new copper plumbing is typically caused by copper pipe corrosion (pitting) or excess flux from installation. It is common in the first few weeks of use and usually clears on its own. Do not drink this water.
Why is my water cloudy or milky?
It could indicate pressure issues in your system, but otherwise:
Trapped air in pipes
This results from tiny air bubbles under pressure. Recent plumbing work might be the culprit here. If the issue lasts longer than a day, something else is to blame.
Temperature changes causing dissolved air
If it’s cold outside, this could be an issue. Dissolved oxygen escapes as tiny bubbles. As pressure drops at the faucet, the dissolved air escapes, creating the temporary cloudy appearance.
While not as common, your water might also appear black, pink or red. Black water could stem from mold in your pipes or in your water heater or manganese from the municipal water supply. This is a serious problem. Call a plumber immediately.
Pink or red water could signify bacterial growth or iron bacteria. Call a plumber to assess.
Terry’s can perform a visual or camera inspection, water testing, and check your water heater and pipes.
Common solutions include water heater flushing and maintenance, pipe replacement, water treatment systems and fixture and valve repairs.
If you’re seeing discoloration to your water, give us a call. We’ve been solving these problems for Pittsburgh families for over 35 years and we are here to help.