We get so used to having water delivered directly to our faucets that we often overlook exactly where it comes from. Where does it come from? The ground, of course.
Because the ground is filled with many different types of minerals, our water is also filled with these minerals.
One of the minerals that is prominent in soil and water is iron. While iron isn’t particularly dangerous, it can adversely impact the quality of your water.
So how do you know if your water is inundated with iron? Here are 4 signs.
1. Unpleasant Odor
Does your water possess an unpleasant sulfur smell? If so, it might be because it contains too much iron.
Iron itself does not produce any noticeable smell in your water, but its existence allows for sulfur bacteria to grow and to turn into hydrogen sulfide. It’s hydrogen sulfide specifically which produces the odor you may be smelling.
Other minerals such as manganese will contribute to this situation as well, but if iron is controlled, the smell will be removed with it. The good news is there is a solution to this problem. A water softener or purification system will remedy the situation.
2. Unsightly Stains
Iron, along with manganese and a variety of other minerals, presents itself in your water through the staining of clothing, shower walls, sinks and other things it comes in contact with. So, if you are experiencing these problems, you’re likely dealing with an excess of iron in your water.
Each and every mineral produces a different color of stain. Iron, in particular, will produce stains which are an orange, yellow, or light red.
While you can typically scrub these stains off of shower walls and fixtures, you are going to have a hard time getting them out of clothing. The best approach to the situation is to avoid them altogether by investing in a professional water conditioning system.
3. Low Water Pressure Issues
Do you find yourself getting frustrated over the low water pressure in your home? While there are a number of different reasons why your water pressure could be low, iron buildup may very well be the culprit.
Over time, as iron-inundated water makes its way through pipes, the iron contained within the water starts to accumulate on the sides of the pipes. Eventually, this iron will be built up to the point that water has a difficult time squeezing through.
The result? Low water pressure.
Cleaning out the inside of your pipes is, unfortunately, not always an easy solution. The primary thing you can do to avoid this problem in the first place is to control the amount of iron in your water.
4. Low Water Pressure Issues
Another sign that your water is inundated with iron is if it doesn’t quite taste right.
Typically, water with too much iron in it will take on a sort of metal taste; tangy and biting instead of neutral and smooth. Some people may actually like this taste, but many are left feeling unsatisfied by it.
Again, if you’re going to eradicate this taste, you’re going to have to monitor and control the amount of iron in your water. Fortunately, there are many different types of water conditioning systems which can do that for you.
Looking to Regulate the Amount of Iron in Your Downers Grove or Lisle Water?
While some people are not bothered by odd-tasting, bad-smelling water which comes out of faucets slowly and stains everything in its general vicinity, most people are. If you’re one of the many who are, and you’re hoping to control the iron in your water, you would be well-served by installing a water softener or purification system.
Live in the Oswego, Montgomery or Aurora area? If so, DuPage Water Conditioning is the company to supply you with the softener or purification systems you may need.
Contact us today for a free estimate!