Common Causes of Discolored or Rusty Water in Tulsa

Brownish or murky water may result from several reasons within your plumbing setup. Listed below are typical causes affecting residents of Tulsa:

• Corroded Galvanized Plumbing in Tulsa
  Galvanized steel pipes were frequently installed in homes built prior to the 1960s. With age, these pipes may deteriorate internally, resulting in rust particles breaking loose and entering the water supply. This corrosion is often the primary culprit for water discoloration or rustiness, and it can affect the entire plumbing system.
• Sediment Buildup in Water Heaters
  If regular maintenance has been skipped for your water heater, deposits may form at the bottom of the tank. When the heater operates, this accumulated sediment might mix in and cause discolored water to flow through your taps, especially when drawing hot water.
• Elevated Iron Levels in Water Source
  In some areas, the water supply itself might carry an excess of iron. This problem is especially prevalent among homes that rely on well water. High iron levels often results in water that looks brown, orange, or even yellow.
• Pipe System Interference
  Fluctuations in water pressure or disruptions in the plumbing system, from repair work or construction, can cause rust and sediment collected over the years to dislodge and enter your water supply, causing brief water discoloration.

How to Fix Rusty Pipes in Tulsa

If you have discoloration or rust in your water within your Tulsa home, determining the cause is essential and addressing it with the right solution. Consider the following solutions:

1. Flush Your Water Heater
   Accumulated sediment in the water heater is a common cause of discolored water. Flushing the water heater annually can help remove this buildup and boost the cleanliness of your water. If your water heater is old or badly worn, it may need to be replaced.
2. Water Testing
   In case you think the water in your home is high in iron, think about testing your water. Depending on the test results, it might be necessary to install a softener or filtering system for eliminating surplus minerals and improve the quality of your water.
3. Galvanized Pipe Replacement in Tulsa Homes
   In homes with aging, rusted galvanized plumbing, a full pipe replacement is the best course of action. Replacing the entire plumbing system with current materials like copper or PEX helps eliminate issues with cloudy or iron-stained water and offer a fresh and reliable water supply for the long term. A Repipe Specialist can conduct a detailed evaluation of the entire plumbing setup and suggest the ideal repiping approach to suit your residence.

Preventing Discolored or Rusty Water

Avoiding rust-colored or murky water calls for preventive care and, at times, enhancing your water pipes. These are some steps residents of Tulsa may implement:

• Routine Plumbing Check-ups
  Set up routine check-ups with a professional plumber to inspect for evidence of rust, water leaks, and further concerns that may compromise water purity.
• Water Heater Care
  Consistently cleaning out your water heater can help prevent sediment buildup and maintain water quality.
• Switching to Updated Pipe Materials
  If the plumbing in your home is still galvanized, consider replacing them with new materials like PEX or copper. These materials are resistant to corrosion and can help prevent the issue of rusty or discolored water going forward.