Why Is Black Water Coming Out of the Faucet?

Did you just see a burst of black water from the faucet? Clearly, this is not normal, and it can be downright disturbing to witness in your home. While you may wonder if your home plumbing system needs an exorcism, the reality is that black water is not necessarily dangerous or serious.

However, if you see any type of water discoloration, it’s always a good idea to get professional water testing in order to properly diagnose the problem.

What Causes Black Water Coming out of the Faucet?

If you saunter into the bathroom and turn on the faucet to find a burst of black water, you likely want answers right away. There are three main reasons this might take place:

• Magnesium: While this mineral is often present in the water supply, when it mixes with oxygen it can turn black.
• Steel or galvanized piping: If you have steel or galvanized piping in your plumbing system, the mineral flakes from rust can combine with other minerals like magnesium to create the black water.
• Water softener: In some cases, the natural resin beads from water softeners can be black; when it breaks down, it may lead to black water.

To properly identify the source of your black water, call on your local team at Mr. Rooter^® Plumbing to schedule a water test. The issue may occur just once, or it may be a persistent problem. Either way, an experienced plumber will diagnose the issue and find the right solution.

Is a Burst of Black Water from the Faucet Dangerous?

First and foremost, when you see black water coming from the faucet, you likely want to know if it’s safe to use. Can you bathe in it? Can you drink black water? In nearly all cases, discolored water, even black water, is harmless and safe to consume and use. However, to be on the safe side, call your local plumbing experts for a proper diagnosis.

Even if the water is safe, you may want to find ways to keep your water’s appearance clear in the future and ensure you have the best water quality possible for your family.

Trust Mr. Rooter Plumbing with Your Water Quality Needs

If you are feeling uncertain about a burst of black water from a faucet, or other water discoloration issues, you can count on the team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing to provide a diagnosis and the fix you need. Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing or make an appointment online today.