TIFS Around the House: What does it mean when your hot water gets colorful?

By Alvin R. Tuckerman - Home Maintenance and Improvement Expert for TIFS

Did you know that smelly, discolored water is a common indicator that something is wrong with your water heater? Understand what to look for and what to do. Discolored hot water, as well as stinky hot water, can indicate a plumbing problem. 

But were you aware that it could also indicate an issue with your water heater? Learn how to diagnose the problem, what DIY maintenance you can perform, and when to contact a professional.

Has this occurred to you? You're looking forward to taking a nice bath after a long day at work; you start the water, and then you realize, "Wait a minute! Why is my hot water brown?!” The mood has been ruined, huh? 

Fortunately for you, this situation is not uncommon. In fact, colored water could be an indicator of rusty water from the hot water heater or pipes, which may be more common than you realize. 

Add a stench to the water and you may also be experiencing a bacteria issue.

Is the problem only apparent after the water has been turned off for a while (i.e., a bacteria problem)? Is it limited to the hot water (i.e., purely a water heater issue)? Does it go away when you run the water for a few minutes (indicating a rusty pipe problem)?

Answering these questions is the first step toward identifying the root of the problem. Next, look at the common water concerns listed below and try some DIY fixes before bringing in reinforcements. Brown, yellow, and red water indicate rust in your pipes. 

The problem could be with just your hot water heater (ideally!) or with all of your home's plumbing. 

Fortunately, one frequent cure to rusty pipes is to install a water softener or filtration system in your house. Try this option before replacing your water heater or, worse, all of your pipes (for the sake of your budget).

Green or bluish-green water indicates copper pipe corrosion or lead. Install a water filter system in your home. Note: If filtering the water does not work, you must replace the copper or metal plumbing to avoid a health risk.

White or tan particles in the water: These are usually calcium or magnesium deposits, which can clog pipes and drains over time if not removed. Consider installing a water filter system in your home. If the problem persists, it means that your water heater's heating elements are calcifying and need to be removed and cleaned.

If the DIY approaches don't seem to be working, or if your major complaint is a smell — such as a sulfurous, rotting, rotten egg, or sewage-like odor — you should seek expert assistance. It's possible that only a water heater component needs to be replaced, but it's better to be safe than sorry.

Similarly, if your water is black, it is a clear sign of mold, which should always be addressed by a professional.