Discolored tap water in your Ruston home? That brown, reddish, or yellowish tint could be more than just unsightly—it might be a sign of corroded plumbing, aging pipes, or even a potential health risk. In this post, we’ll break down what causes rusty water, what it means for your family, and how to fix it fast.
🚨 What Causes Rusty Water in Ruston, WA?
Ruston, with its mix of historic and modern homes, often faces plumbing issues due to aging infrastructure and fluctuating water pressure during seasonal changes. Here are the most common causes of rusty water in the area:
1. Corroded Galvanized Pipes
Homes built before the 1980s often have galvanized steel plumbing, which is prone to internal rusting as it ages. Over time, this rust flakes off into the water supply.
Tip: If only the hot water is discolored, your water heater may be the source.
2. Sediment in the Water Heater
Without regular maintenance, sediment builds up in water heater tanks, especially in areas with hard water. This can release rusty particles into your hot water supply.
3. Municipal Water Supply Disruptions
Sometimes, city water line repairs or hydrant flushing can stir up rust and sediment in the mains, which temporarily affects household water clarity.
You can view Ruston’s water system updates via Tacoma Public Utilities to check if recent disturbances occurred in your area.
⚠️ Health Risks of Rusty Tap Water
While iron in water isn’t considered toxic by the EPA (source), rusty water can still pose risks and inconveniences:
- Skin Irritation: Some people may experience itchy skin or irritation when bathing in rusty water.
- Stained Laundry: High iron content causes brownish stains on clothes and white linens.
- Metallic Taste: Drinking or cooking with rusty water can be unpleasant and unsanitary.
- Bacterial Growth: In extreme cases, rust buildup may lead to biofilm or bacterial contamination in pipes (CDC warning).
If you’re concerned about your family’s health, schedule a professional plumbing inspection right away.
🔧 How to Fix Rusty Water in Ruston Homes
Here’s how to tackle rusty water and prevent it from coming back:
✔️ Step 1: Identify the Source
- Run cold and hot water separately.
- If only the hot water is rusty: flush the water heater.
- If both are affected: your main pipes or municipal water may be to blame.
✔️ Step 2: Flush Your Water Heater
- Sediment removal is key. Flush your heater at least once a year.
- For tankless systems, regular descaling is recommended.
✔️ Step 3: Replace Old Galvanized Pipes
- Consider repiping with PEX or copper. This eliminates rust and improves water quality long-term.
✔️ Step 4: Install a Whole-Home Filtration System
- A high-quality iron filter or water softener can reduce mineral buildup and sediment in your supply.
🧰 When to Call the Pros
If rusty water persists for more than 24 hours or returns frequently, it’s time for a professional assessment. You may need:
- Pipe replacement
- Water heater repair
- Filtration system installation
- Water quality testing
✅ Reliable Plumbing in Ruston, WA
At Einstein Pros Ruston, we specialize in identifying the root cause of rusty water and delivering long-term, affordable solutions. Our licensed plumbers use camera inspections, water testing kits, and pipe diagnostics to keep your water clean and safe.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Rusty water in your Ruston home isn’t just a nuisance—it’s a plumbing red flag. Whether it’s aging pipes, sediment, or city line disturbances, don’t ignore discolored water. Routine maintenance and professional help can save you thousands in repairs and keep your home safe.
👉 Need help now? Contact Einstein Pros Ruston today to schedule a same-day inspection.