Apr 30,2025

4 Signs There’s Something Wrong with Your Tap Water

Municipal water supply lines are generally safe to drink. However, that doesn’t mean you should leave your well-being to chance. Even the most meticulously filtered and processed tap water can have a weird odor and taste, indicating contamination due to faulty pipes in your property. If you are wondering why your tap water is white or has a metallic taste, consult professional plumbing service providers to test your water for impurities. At Rooter Man, we leverage extensive knowledge and specialized equipment to diagnose your water and recommend effective solutions to restore safety to your home’s supply. Let’s delve into the four signs you should look out for that indicate something is wrong with your water.

Cloudy Water

The most noticeable sign you need to call a professional plumber in Altadena, CA is cloudy water. If you notice "milky" water from your faucets, set it aside for several minutes to see if it clears. If the cloudiness does not dissipate, it could be air trapped in the pipes, corrosion, or heavy minerals such as magnesium and calcium. As mentioned, testing the water can detect minerals and other contaminants in the water, ensuring effective solutions. In the case of pipe damage, hiring a plumbing repair service to fix or replace the affected line can restore clarity and safety.

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Metallic Taste

Another common problem affecting local water supplies is a metallic taste, often accompanied by a discolored or rusty look. Metal deposits of zinc, iron, or manganese can leach into your water after it has been treated, leading to a metallic taste in your water supply. The most common culprit is the water heater, as hot water can corrode the pipes, causing it to shed tiny flakes. Once you notice a metallic smell and taste from your hot water faucets, call a plumbing service provider as soon as possible! A professional can determine what the problem is and devise tailored strategies to fix it.

Foul Smells

Clean, treated water should not smell. If your water has a weird smell, it is a red flag you should not ignore. Since different contaminants produce distinct smells, consult a licensed plumber to diagnose the problem accurately. Algae blooms in your water can cause a moldy smell, while bacteria in your water heater can produce a rotten egg-like smell. Professionals can eliminate the uncertainties associated with DIY solutions, providing tailored solutions to prevent recurrences and other hazards down the line.

Presence of Scum or Stains on Surfaces

If you spill tap water, it should not leave behind stains or any sort of residue. Check your sinks for stains or a chalky substance, as they indicate a problem with your water. Orange or brown stains often indicate copper or iron residue from clogged, rusted, or corroded pipes. On the other hand, chalky water indicates hard minerals like magnesium and calcium. A licensed technician can pinpoint the problem and determine the best course of action to keep your home safe. Whether it is a complete repiping or installing a water softener, you can trust professionals to handle every aspect of your project according to local codes.

Call a Trusted Plumbing Service

Your water supply is vital for daily activities, such as cooking, drinking, cleaning, and bathing. With that said, ensuring it is safe can keep your loved ones and enhance the overall quality of life. At Rooter Man, we have experience dealing with water problems, whether you rely on a municipal supply or a private well. If you notice the signs mentioned above, contact us quickly so that you can enjoy clean, drinkable water in no time. We can have a plumbing repair service provider at your door within a moment’s notice, giving you peace of mind knowing professionals are on the job.