Jersey City

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02 - tap water

What is Wrong With My Tap Water?

Although the tap water in New Jersey that comes from municipal sources is typically fairly safe to drink, you should still rely on your own judgment. Even the most carefully filtered and treated tap water may still have an odd scent to it or appear dirty to you for a number of reasons. Defective pipes in your home could lead your water to become contaminated even after it has been processed. 

How come my tap water is white? My water tastes metallic; why is that? It’s simple to become concerned about the quality of your drinking water, and before you know it, you’re too frightened to turn on the faucet at all. Diagnostic testing of your water is the greatest method to prevent that unpleasant sensation. We’ll aid in your beginning. There are four simple techniques to determine if there is a problem with your tap water.

Your water seems to be cloudy.

Clear tap water indicates that it has been adequately treated. Do not use water that seems cloudy or that is “milky” in color. Instead, wait a few minutes to see if the cloudiness goes away before continuing. If the cloudiness persists after clearing, it was likely caused by a harmless build-up of trapped air. Water under pressure contains air bubbles. The air escapes into the water as the pressure is released as the water comes out of your faucet.

Additionally, cloudy water may indicate that your tap water is excessively “hard.” Heavy minerals like calcium and magnesium are present in hard water. While not necessarily harmful, some minerals cause your water to get cloudy. If you have a water softener and notice that your water is hazy, it is probably not operating properly. Cloudy water may also indicate corroded, sand- or dirt-filled pipes that your water passes through. Have an expert inspect your pipes if you believe that might be the case, especially if your plumbing is older.

Your water has a metallic taste.

One of the most typical issues with household water supplies is this. Your water may even seem rusty or discolored if the issue is serious enough. Unsurprisingly, the fact that your water contains metal is the most likely cause of its metallic flavor! Particularly, it’s likely that iron, zinc, or manganese deposits leached into your water. Nothing prevents metallic deposits from getting into your water because they typically seep into it after it has been treated.

If only your hot water smells metallic, your water heater may be the source of the issue. To get rid of any sediment that could be generating the odor, flush your water heater. If all of your water tastes metallic, then rust or corrosion in your water supply pipes may be the cause. Water in corroded pipes may shear off little flakes as it moves through them. Have a professional inspect and clean your supply pipes right away. We’ll be able to identify the issue and choose the best course of action.

Your Water Has an Odor

Treated tap water shouldn’t ever have a stench. If it does, it is likely a sign that there is an unwanted substance in your water. Different water contaminants produce different weird smells. Your water may smell metallic because of the same minerals that give it a metallic taste. A lasting musty or moldy odor may be caused by algae blooms in the nearby water source. Your water heater may emit a revolting rotten egg odor due to bacteria. When water softener salt is used excessively, softened water suddenly tastes salty.

Discovering the source of your water’s odor will help you determine the best course of action. You should flush your water heater if your water smells metallic or sulfurous, for example. Try turning down your water softener if the water in your home smells salty. It could be more difficult to eliminate a musty odor on your own. Ask your neighbors if there is a problem with the water in your neighborhood, or search online for any remarks made concerning algae by your water provider. Your taps could also use a good cleaning. Of course, to find the source of the issue, call your neighborhood smell-good plumber when in doubt.

Your Water Remains With Spots or Scum

Any kind of residue or stain shouldn’t ever be left behind by tap water. Something is amiss with your tap water if it discolors your sinks or bathtubs or leaves behind a chalky residue. 

Almost orange or brown water stains

These stains show that copper or iron residue has dissolved into your water. Your water supply pipes may have corroded, rusted, or become obstructed.

Water with Chalky Remains

Calcium and magnesium make up the grit that your tap water may leave behind. Your water is too hard, which is why. 

You could start by looking at your water softener if your tap water is leaving stains or gunk behind. If your softener is operating properly, the issue is most likely with your supply pipes. Natural rusting or corrosion of supply pipes occurs over time, especially if your water is hard. If you want a long-lasting solution, think about replacing your pipes.

For Every Los Angeles Water Issue

The list of potential issues with your tap water is not all-inclusive. If you don’t see your issue here, it doesn’t necessarily follow that you don’t. Do not panic, but also do not discount your suspicions. 

Give BJC Plumbers Jersey City a call if you want prompt, trustworthy responses to your water questions. Our professionals can identify the cause of your water issue and recommend the least invasive solution. Never should you be concerned about whether your water is safe to drink. We’ll allay any concerns if you give us a call.