Brown sink water can be unsettling for homeowners in the San Jose, CA and San Francisco Bay Area. While discolored water is often seen in older plumbing, it can occur in any home and should never be ignored. At AquaTek Plumbing, we offer expert plumbing services including water heater repair to identify the cause of brown water and restore clear flow quickly. By knowing what’s behind brown water and how to fix it, you can take steps to prevent it from happening again.
Why Is My Tap Water Brown?
When you grab a glass of water from the tap, you might be surprised to see it come out brown instead of clear. Brown water often results from pipe corrosion, sediment buildup, or disruptions in the water supply. It doesn’t always mean there’s a major plumbing failure. In most cases, rusty or discolored water traces back to one of a few common plumbing or water system problems.
- Rusted Pipes: Corroded metal pipes can release rust particles into your water.
- Sediment Disruption: Water pressure changes may stir sediment or dirt that has settled in your pipes.
- Local Issues: The problem may be from maintenance or repairs in the municipal water system.
- Internal Plumbing Repairs: Recent plumbing work may shake loose rust or debris, causing short-term water discoloration.
- Water Heater Issues: Build-up in your water heater tank can discolor water and lower efficiency, especially in older or rarely flushed units. Professional San Jose water heater repair may be necessary.
Is Brown Tap Water Dangerous?
Typically, discolored water from your home’s supply isn’t dangerous, but it may affect the taste, appearance and overall quality. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), common causes of brown water, like iron and manganese, are considered secondary contaminants. Though not appealing to drink, the water is generally safe for tasks like washing hands or showering.
What To Do When Your Sink Has Brown Water
If your tap runs brown, don’t panic, but don’t ignore it either. You should take a few steps to diagnose and solve the problem. Test other faucets around your home to see if the issue is isolated or affecting your entire home. These quick checks can help determine whether the issue is coming from inside your home or from the municipal supply. The sooner you act, the sooner your water can run clear again.
- Run The Faucet: Letting water run can help clear out sediment, especially if caused by disturbances in the main water line.
- Inspect Pipes: Examine any exposed pipes for visible signs of rust or damage.
- Ask Neighbors: See if your neighbors have similar issues, which may indicate a broader city problem.
How To Fix A Sink With Discolored Water
Fixing brown water starts with figuring out where it’s coming from. The right fix depends on the cause of discolored water. If the issue stems from rusted or aging pipes, you may need to repair or upgrade your plumbing. In other cases, sediment buildup or recent plumbing work might be to blame.
- Pipe Replacement: Removing and replacing rusted pipe sections with modern materials like PVC or PEX can resolve ongoing issues.
- Pipe Relining: Inserting a resin liner forms a new pipe within the old, restoring integrity without full replacement.
- Flushing The System: Professional plumbers in the San Francisco Bay Area can flush pipes to remove built-up sediments effectively.
- Water Softeners & Filters: Installing a water softener can help continually treat water and trap particles before reaching faucets.
When The Issue Is The City Water Supply
Not all discolored water problems originate inside your home. If multiple neighbors are experiencing similar issues, the cause may lie with the municipal supply. While AquaTek Plumbing can help you confirm the source, water utility providers are responsible for addressing these problems in the public system. In these cases:
- Report the issue to your local water authority to ensure they’re aware and can take action.
- Use bottled water for drinking or cooking until the issue clears.
Preventing Brown Water & Protecting Your Plumbing
Preventative measures can drastically reduce the likelihood of encountering brown water again. Many of these steps are simple but effective, helping you maintain cleaner water and avoid costly plumbing repairs down the line. Staying proactive also extends the life of your system and gives you peace of mind about your home’s water quality.
- Schedule Regular Inspections
- Replace Outdated Plumbing
- Adjust Water Pressure
- Install Sediment Screens
Common FAQs About Brown Sink Water
To further demystify the issue of rusty water, here are answers to common concerns:
Can Brown Water Stain My Clothes?
Yes, washing clothes in brown water may cause staining due to iron and sediment particles. It’s advisable to avoid laundry until water clears.
Why Is Only One Faucet Producing Brown Water?
If brown water comes from just one tap, the problem is likely limited to that fixture’s pipe or connection. It may be caused by local corrosion, sediment buildup, or recent plumbing work. A plumber can inspect and resolve the issue quickly.
Is Bathing In Brown Water Safe?
It's typically safe if the discoloration is caused by minerals, as these don't pose health risks. However, if the water smells foul, feels gritty, or has visible debris, it’s best to avoid using it until the issue is resolved.
When To Call A Professional Plumber
If brown water persists at your sink after flushing the lines or checking with neighbors, it’s time to bring in a licensed plumber. Persistent water discoloration could point to corroded pipes, buildup in your system, or ongoing municipal issues. AquaTek Plumbing can diagnose the cause and restore your water quality quickly and safely.
End Brown Water With AquaTek Plumbing
Don’t let brown sink water disrupt your daily life. Homeowners in San Jose and the San Francisco Bay Area trust AquaTek Plumbing for expert plumbing services tailored to their needs. Since 1982, our team has delivered reliable solutions that restore water clarity and protect your home’s plumbing. Whether you need pipe replacement, a system inspection, or routine maintenance, we’re here to help. Contact us today to get your water flowing clean again.
