What to Do If There Is a Burst of Black Water from a Faucet
Start by checking the inside of the toilet tank. If the inside is black, most likely, there is iron or magnesium in the water.
If a homeowner experiences black water bursting from their faucet, they are likely alarmed and wondering what it is. There are several possible reasons for discolored water, but ultimately, water testing will be the most helpful in diagnosing the root of the problem.
Minerals such as iron and magnesium, algae, pipe degradation, and resin beads can all cause black water to come out of the tap.
Sources of black water
There are three primary sources of the black water coming out of a faucet:
It could be magnesium, commonly found in the water supply, and when mixed with oxygen, can turn it black.
Steel or galvanized piping may cause mineral flakes to combine with other minerals and create black water.
It may be the water softener as the natural resin beads can be black, and as they break down, they produce black water.
To correctly identify the source of the black water, contact a local licensed plumber to conduct a water test. Whether the problem occurs just once or is a recurring problem, an experienced plumber can help identify the problem and find a solution.
Diagnosing the issue
Start by checking the inside of the toilet tank. If the inside is black, most likely, there is iron or magnesium in the water. The homeowner can choose to install a whole-house water filter to remove the minerals from the water.
Magnesium in the water
Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral found in our water supply. Usually, it cannot be seen by the naked eye and is healthy to consume in small doses. The black color occurs when magnesium mixes with too much oxygen and does not mean a high magnesium level in the water.
While this mineral poses no health risks, it still does not look good and can be resolved. Either purchase a testing kit or hire a plumber to test the water.
A water softener may be needed if it is magnesium, as a filter will not catch it. Softeners will eliminate minerals from the water, causing it to turn back to its clear color. They are also great for protecting some appliances from mineral buildup and have skin and hair benefits.
Old Piping
A burst of black water is quite common in an old house. If the house’s piping system is old, it may need replacement at some point. The water will slowly darken over time until it becomes black if this is the case.
With steel or galvanized piping, they will lose their efficiency and start rusting over time. The rust will eventually flake off into small pieces and give the water a brown or dark color. Notably, these flakes can also mix with other minerals and lead to black water in the pipes.
A DIY fix is not recommended if this is the issue. Call an experienced plumber who can help remedy the issue.
Defective Water Softener
Water softeners help to add to the lifespan of appliances and help the residents’ hair and skin look better. However, they do not last forever and will need replacement parts. Homeowners may notice a burst of black water from the faucet if the water softener breaks.
A broken-down water softener could allow magnesium to get through and turn the water black. On the other hand, the black color can come from the natural resin beads in the water softener if it breaks down.
The solution here is simple: repair or replace the water softener.
The danger of black water
When seeing a burst of black water, the first question is whether the water is safe to use or consume. Discolored water (even black water) is often harmless and safe to consume and use in activities such as showering or washing dishes.
However, homeowners should contact a local licensed plumber to be on the safe side to identify the actual issue. Even if the water is safe, homeowners may want to make its appearance clearer and ensure they have the best quality water possible.
A burst of black water from a faucet is not always harmful. However, it can be understandably shocking when the water is supposed to be clear. The water is usually safe, but it’s best to have it tested. A local licensed plumber can help diagnose the issue and provide solutions.
If you need a licensed, bonded, insured plumber for your Phoenix area leak or your next plumbing project, call MNS Plumbing today at 602-362-4524.
