Municipal water systems and residential wells are designed to provide households with a steady supply of fresh, clean water. Unfortunately, water quality can still become an issue even if the well is dug correctly or the municipal supply is clean. One of the most common problems homeowners have with water quality is black specks in their water supplies.
Noticing this problem can be very disconcerting, but don’t be too concerned. It might not be as serious as homeowners think. Instead of freaking out, read on to find out about three possible issues that could cause these specks to suddenly appear.
#1 Old Pipes
All pipes deteriorate over time. As this occurs, they may begin to corrode, leading to the introduction of rust, tiny pieces of the pipe, or other unwanted materials into the home’s water supply. For those living in the city, the plumbing problem could be occurring in one of two places.
The aging pipes could be part of the municipal system or from the home’s plumbing system. Unless they have just changed out their entire plumbing systems, the best thing homeowners can do is to get plumbing services here and ask the plumber to check for other signs of pipe damage or other issues that contribute to specks in the water. If the plumber doesn’t find anything, call the municipal supply company and file a complaint.
#2 Corroded Water Heater
Water heaters can usually be expected to last between eight and twelve years with proper maintenance. An improperly maintained water heater can begin to corrode at almost any age, building up mineral deposits and releasing them into the water supply. If the black specks are only showing up when residents use hot water, the water heater is almost certainly to blame.
If the water heater is still relatively young, a plumber may be able to drain the tank to remove excess mineral problems. If it’s getting old or the corrosion is already severe, it may be better to replace the unit entirely. Ask the plumber for a professional opinion when he or she shows up to inspect the unit.
#3 Issues with Water Filters
Whole-home and localized water filtration systems are designed to remove contaminants from the water supply before they reach the faucet. These filters often feature granular activated carbon. It’s great at attracting contaminants, but if the filter is old, those granules can stop performing their important job and instead begin introducing themselves into the water supply.
The granules from water filtration systems look like coffee grounds. They may be present in any concentration. Before calling a plumber, try removing and replacing the filter to see if it solves the problem. If it doesn’t, call in a professional to identify the source.
Bottom Line
Given that most families use the water from their taps for everything from showering and washing dishes to mixing lemonade, it’s important not to ignore potential water purity issues. If families notice black spots or other forms of discoloration in their water, the best thing to do is take action immediately.
Most homeowners don’t have the tools or the know-how to diagnose and fix the underlying problem themselves, so it’s typically best to call a plumber as soon as an issue is seen. A professional plumber will be able not just to determine the cause of the black specks but implement an effective solution.
15 comments
Oh I have never seen black specs in my water but it’s good to be aware of such things if I do come across them.
Never experienced this issue.But it is always good to have information handy.
This is new to me …never seen but I am glad you have shared and now I will be aware of that!!
Never seen black specs, but I remember the time we got society’s RO water. The pipes got corroded and the water turned reddish because of the rust! We ultimately had to get our own RO!
I am so glad that you are educating home-owners on these important safety and health aspects. Another fantastic and useful post.
A very informative post which we all should be knowing tysm for sharing.
We are using filter, as we all know the water of MCD is how good. But it really a great tips to keep a check on purity of water
I had no clue of this Tina, will watch out for blacks spec Herron and also bear in mind your suggestions
Thanks Tina for the helpful post and it reminds to check the water filter pipes.
Black specks in water..well this was something new to me but yes it’s always good to be aware of water and it’s quality.
This is new to me because I never experienced it. Thank for the post. It is good to know about the reasons for black specks in the water.
Any foreign elements in water are a cause of worry since it outs our family’s health in danger. Good points here to determine probably causes.
It is really important to know this and ensure we follow these tips as well. After all it’s about our safety.
That’s helpful approach in ruling out the purity of water. I’ve never thought old water heater can be one of the cause
I feel we gave to be extra careful about the quality if water we get. Water bourne diseases can severely affect out health. Its important to do regular checkups.