If you have a well and your water has suddenly taken on a cloudy or dirty appearance, it’s important to act quickly. These residential water systems can experience issues that can compromise the cleanliness of your water supply. Here are a few possible culprits.

Why Is My Well Water Dirty?

1. Broken Pipes

If a pipe in your residential water system bursts or even has a slight crack, it will let dirt and runoff enter your water supply. As a result, you may notice a brownish hue or sediment in your glass. Because runoff can carry pesticides, road chemicals, and other toxins, it’s essential to have the broken pipe repaired to restore safe drinking water. 

2. High Concentration of Metals

Iron is notorious for leaving red or brown stains behind in bathtubs, sinks, and other fixtures. As rainwater enters the ground, it can dissolve iron from the earth’s crust, resulting in a higher mineral concentration in your water. Although it’s typically not found in concentrations higher than 10 mg/L, even just 0.3 mg/L can leave behind a reddish hue. Iron in your drinking water isn’t generally hazardous to health, but a filtration system can help eradicate the stubborn coloring. 

3. Low Water Levels

If the water level in your well drops too low, your pump could be generating water from the very bottom along with dirt and other organic material such as decaying vegetation, causing foul-smelling and foul-tasting water. While a filtration system can address the issue temporarily, it’s best to have a professional determine the root cause. Your well could be nearing the end of its lifespan, as most generally last about 30 years.

When Anchorage, AK, homeowners experience issues with their residential water systems, they turn to Anchorage Well & Pump Service, Inc. This team has been trusted among the community since 1983 and offers 24/7 service to come to your aid when you need it most. See their complete list of services online, or call (907) 243-0740 to schedule a consultation.