Discolored water from a water well is never something you want to see, and you’ll naturally be searching for answers if this is happening. A common question down these lines: Why is my well water brown?
At Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC, we’re proud to offer a wide range of well water services for clients around Utah, from well water inspections and rehabilitation services to well water treatment, well water filtration and more. Here are some of the possible brown well water causes, plus what these say about the state of your well and some tips for remedying them – including cases where calling in our team of water well professionals is recommended.
Rust or Iron Contamination
Two different occurrences, but which can often be confused with one another, are rust and iron contamination. Iron is a common element found in soil and rocks, which can often seep into well water systems. The result: Brown or rusty-colored water that can smell and taste unpleasant.
Iron contamination is more common in areas with high iron concentrations in the soil, but can also occur due to corrosion of metal pipes or other equipment within the well system. If your brown well water has a metallic taste or leaves orange-brown stains on surfaces, it’s likely due to iron.
To remedy this, a water filtration system specifically designed to remove iron may be necessary. In some cases, flushing the well and replacing corroded equipment may also be required.
Sediment Buildup
Another potential cause of brown well water is sediment buildup within the well itself. This can happen over time as debris, minerals and other particles settle at the bottom of the well. When the water is agitated or pumped out, these particles can become disturbed and mix with the water, causing it to appear discolored.
Sediment buildup can also occur due to changes in water pressure or sudden increases in usage, which can stir up sediment that has settled at the bottom of the well.
If your well water appears brown or sandy, sediment buildup may be the culprit. Consider your options for flushing and cleaning the well, or consult with a professional for assistance.
Organic Matter
When we talk about organic matter, we’re referring to any living or once-living material that can be found in well water. This includes things like leaves, insects and even animal waste. While most of these particles are filtered out during the treatment process, some may slip through and end up in your well water.
If your brown well water has a musty or earthy smell, it’s likely due to organic matter contamination. To remedy this, we recommend installing a well water filtration system to remove any remaining impurities.
Nearby Construction
In other cases, brown well water may be the result of nearby construction activity. When heavy machinery is used in areas close to your well, it can cause vibrations that disturb sediment at the bottom of the well or even damage pipes and equipment.
If you suspect this may be the cause of your brown well water, we recommend having a professional inspect your well for any damage and make necessary repairs. In many cases, the entity responsible for the construction may also be liable for any damages to your well, or for any repairs necessary.
Seasonal Changes
There are also certain times of the year when brown well water may be more common. For example, heavy rainfall can cause runoff and sediment to enter your well system, leading to discoloration. Changes in temperature can also affect water chemistry and result in discolored or foul-smelling water.
If you notice that your well water is only brown during certain seasons, it’s likely due to seasonal changes. In this case, regularly testing and treating your water may be necessary to maintain its quality.
Surrounding Environment
Another factor to consider is the surrounding environment of your well. If there are any potential sources of contamination nearby, such as septic systems, agricultural operations or industrial facilities, it’s possible for these contaminants to make their way into your well water.
In this case, regular testing and treatment may be necessary to ensure the safety and quality of your well water. We recommend consulting with a professional if you suspect that your brown well water may be due to environmental factors.
When to Call in Professionals
While some cases of brown well water can be easily remedied through cleaning and maintenance, there are certain situations where it’s best to call in professionals like our team at Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC. This includes instances where personal health and safety may be at risk, or if the cause of brown well water is not immediately obvious.
Our team has the knowledge, experience, and equipment to properly diagnose and address any issues with your well water. Whether it’s installing a filtration system, repairing damaged pipes, or conducting regular maintenance to prevent future problems, we can help ensure that your well water remains clean and safe for use.
For these or any other well water concerns around Utah, don’t hesitate to contact us at Mike Zimmerman Well Service LLC. We’re dedicated to providing top-quality well water services and making sure that your well water is always up to standard. Trust in our team for all your well water needs.
