Color is all around us. Rainbows. Art. Water? Yes, the water in a pool, lake and ocean is actually colorless but reflects color based on the environment around it and particles within it. So then what color is the water in your home or business? It may look colorless when it comes out of the tap or in your washing machine, but the color it leaves behind on your bathtub, faucets and even clothes can determine the quality of your water.

BLUE GREEN stain is a sign of pipe erosion from copper deposits within your plumbing due to low alkalinity (low pH) in the water. It could also be a sign of high chloride content from saltwater.

GREEN stains could be caused by algae, naturally-occurring microbes that can appear when a blockage in a filter or other part of your water system builds up over time.

BROWN ORANGE (Rust Color) water with high concentration of iron causes staining on freshly-washed clothing, sinks and plumbing fixtures. Another sign of iron is a metallic flavor or smell from the faucet water and/or your beverages become inky or black, for example coffee and tea.

WHITE residue in your bathtub, sink or dishes is a sign of “hard water”. Limescale is the white, chalky residue left behind by dissolved minerals (primarily calcium and magnesium) in your water.

PINK, BROWN, BLACK residue could be signs of mold accumulating around wet environments.

Should You Hire an Expert in Water Colors

Of course, you can purchase cleaning supplies to remove the color stains around your faucets, sinks, tubs, toilets, dishwashers, washing machines and clothes BUT the rainbow will return if you don’t fix your water quality problem. For more information or to consult with a water treatment specialist, please contact EPA Water Consultants to schedule an appointment.