If you’ve ever turned on the tap and noticed brown, yellow, or reddish water coming out, you’re not alone. Discolored water is a common issue in many Maryland homes—and it can be alarming. At Mallick Plumbing & Heating, we help homeowners across the region identify the source of the problem and restore clean, clear water to their homes.
Here’s a closer look at the most common reasons for discolored water in MD and what you can do about it.
Common Causes of Discolored Water
1. Rust in Old Pipes
One of the top culprits behind brown or reddish water is corrosion in older, galvanized iron pipes. As these pipes deteriorate, rust can flake off and enter your water supply, especially after periods of inactivity or when water pressure changes suddenly.
If you live in an older Maryland home, this could very well be what causes rusty water in Maryland properties like yours. Replacing aging pipes with copper or PEX piping can resolve this issue long-term.
2. Sediment in Your Water Heater
Over time, minerals and sediment build up at the bottom of your water heater tank. When disturbed—such as after maintenance or heavy use—this sediment can cloud your hot water. If the discoloration only occurs when using hot water, your water heater may need to be flushed or replaced.
We offer professional water heater inspections and service to help keep your system running efficiently and your water clean.
3. Municipal Water System Disturbances
Sometimes, discolored water isn’t caused by anything in your home at all. Fire hydrant use, water main breaks, or routine maintenance by your utility provider can stir up sediment and minerals in public water lines. This can temporarily turn your water yellow or brown.
In most cases, this resolves within a few hours. Running cold water from your faucet for several minutes can help flush out the system.
4. High Iron or Manganese Content
Maryland water sources—especially well water—can naturally contain high levels of iron or manganese. These minerals aren’t harmful to your health, but they can stain laundry, fixtures, and leave behind a metallic taste.
Installing a water filtration system or water softener can help eliminate discoloration and improve the quality of your water.
What You Should Do
If you notice discolored water in your home, here are the steps we recommend:
- Run Cold Water: Let your cold water faucet run for 5–10 minutes to see if the water clears up.
- Check If It’s Hot or Cold: If discoloration only occurs with hot water, the issue may be your water heater.
- Avoid Using Appliances: Hold off on doing laundry or dishes to prevent staining.
- Contact Mallick Plumbing: If the problem persists or you suspect aging pipes or sediment buildup, it’s time to call a professional.
You can schedule an appointment with our team anytime at mallickplumbing.com. We’ll get to the bottom of the issue and recommend the best solution, whether that’s flushing your water heater, installing a filter, or upgrading your pipes.
Prevent Future Water Quality Issues
At Mallick Plumbing & Heating, we don’t just fix water quality issues—we help prevent them. From annual plumbing maintenance to professional water treatment system installation, we’re your trusted partner for clean, safe water year-round.
Be sure to check out our current special offers and coupons to save on select services.
Need Help with Discolored Water?
Don’t wait to address stained, rusty, or cloudy water. Our experienced plumbers are here to help you get the clean, fresh water your family deserves.