Water is a necessity to replenish our thirst, to prepare meals and to wash our bodies and other items.
If rust gets into our everyday water, it can cause issues. While it doesn’t cause immediate harm or danger if it’s consumed, it will undeniably have a bad taste and can inconvenience your daily routine in other ways.
Want to know how to identify rust in your water and what to do next?
Find out with the Melville plumbers at Superior Plumbing.
Is it really rust?
Rust is defined as the chemical reaction (oxidation) of iron which can occur over time when bare metal surfaces come into contact with oxygen in the air or water. Identifying rust in your water is easy if you know what to look for.
For example, it’s well known that rust has a distinctive metallic odour and an appearance that’s reddish-brown in colour. When rust gets into your water – you can taste it plain and simple.
If rust really is in your water, expect to see stains on your porcelain fixtures and white linens tainted with a brownish hue, as well.
Simple DIY testing to determine the source
To complete a DIY rust investigation, you’ll need to take a sample of water from both taps of the same fixture where rust was first noticed.
Then, follow these steps:
- Fill a glass with cold water from the suspected, affected fixture. Take note of the water’s colour and smell.
- From here, let the cold tap run for a few seconds before doing the same with another glass.
- Repeat the above 2 steps using the hot taps.
If you’re noticing the rusty water is only present in the hot water supply, or if the rust disappears when the water is left to run, this is a likely indicator of a rust source within your home/building.
However, if it’s continuously coming from both taps, contact the Water Corporation as soon as possible to report the issue, as this points to old and corroding pipes affecting yours and your neighbour’s water networks.
What should you do next?
Rust is only a health concern if you have the condition, hemochromatosis, which can lead to the body storing much more iron than is needed. However, rusty water can and likely will, inconvenience how you use water within your home or business.
Whether a minor or major cause for concern, it’s recommended to report suspected rust in your water to the relevant authorities or professionals.
If the source of rust is pointing towards the local, public water supply contact the Water Corporation.
If it looks like the source of rust is somewhere within your home or business’ plumbing, contact your local Perth plumber.
Solve your plumbing problems with Superior Plumbing
When you rely on Superior Plumbing, you receive only superior plumbing services and technicians.
From diagnosing and replacing corroded pipes, to repairing or replacing rusty water heaters, to any and all other plumbing problems – we’re here to help.
Looking for a professional Perth plumber?
Contact Superior Plumbing today for superior plumbing services across residential and commercial settings.