Common Causes of Discoloration, Odors and Bad Tasting Water
If you’re noticing changes to the water coming out of your tap – such as strange colors, unpleasant taste or bad odors – the cause may be your water heater.
To find out if the water heater is the cause, note the following:
- Is the problem isolated to the hot rather than cold running faucet?
- Does the problem often occur first thing in the morning?
- Does water quality degrade after the tap has not been used for a while?
- Does the problem clear up after you run hot water for a few minutes?
If any of the above cases is true, the water heater may be the culprit.
Water Heater Odors
Bad smells, such as a sulphur odors, are sometimes caused by bacteria growing in the water heater tank. When the water heater goes unused for long periods of time bacteria, while usually harmless, can cause unpleasant odors. A sulphur, or rotten egg odor, is sometimes caused by a corroded anode rod inside the water heater. The rod should be inspected and replaced if needed.
Hard water can also cause sediment to accumulate at the bottom of the tank, causing odors. Installing a water softener should fix the problem.
Water Discoloration
Brown, red or yellow tinted water can be caused by rust from a corroded water heater tank, or pipes inside the home. The iron present in most water is not a significant health risk, but it can stain clothing and dishes and leave drinking water with a metallic taste. Your plumber can help track down the cause and determine if the water heater is the source of the problem.
White or tan particles in the water are usually a sign of calcium or magnesium. While not generally harmful to ingest, the minerals can clog pipes and drains over time. A water filtration system or water softener can remove the minerals from the water.
The Hidden Role of Sediment Build-up
Over time, minerals present in water, such as calcium and magnesium, can settle at the bottom of your water heater, forming a sediment layer. If the sediment gets disturbed, it can mix with the water, leading to a metallic or earthy taste. Bits of sediment can also discolor the water, giving it a cloudy appearance.
Corrosion and Rust
Water heaters are typically made of metal, and over time, they can corrode, especially if the anode rod is becomes ineffective. When corrosion occurs water taste and odor issues can arise as corroded metals leach into the water, resulting in a metallic taste.
Temperature Settings and Bacteria Growth
Legionella and other bacteria thrive in water temperatures between 95°F and 115°F. If your water heater is set within this range bacteria could result in unhealthy water that has poor taste and a noticeable odor. Bacterial growth can lead to sulfur-like smells and off-tastes.
The Importance of Regular Water Heater Maintenance
Flushing your water heater regularly is the best defense against contamination. It’s also important to regularly check and replace the anode rod if it’s worn out. Check the manufacturer’s instructions or call to have one of Central’s plumbers help with maintenance.
Ensure that your water heater’s thermostat is set to at least 120°F. This will this will inhibit bacteria growth.
If your water heater has worn out too soon, consider investing in a water heater with a longer warranty or corrosion-resistant materials.
Have concerns about water quality in your home? Give Central Heating Cooling Plumbing and Electrical a call. We can help identify the cause of the problem and recommend effective solutions for cleaner, better tasting water.
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