Iron in Water

Iron can enter your water supply through several pathways:

• Natural Deposits: Iron is naturally present in soil and rock formations. As water moves through these formations, it can dissolve iron, leading to elevated levels in groundwater supplies. According to the Vermont Department of Health, “Iron is a metal found naturally in the Earth’s crust. As rainwater moves through natural rock formations underground, it can dissolve iron and carry it into aquifers that serve as sources of drinking water.”
• Rusty Old Pipes: In older homes, water can pick up iron from pipes that have gotten rusty over time. This is more likely to happen in houses with old plumbing.
• Factories and Mines: Iron can sometimes enter water from nearby factories or mines. If these places don’t handle their waste carefully, there can be more iron in the water around them.
• Changes in Groundwater: The amount of iron in water can go up or down when there’s a lot of rain or not enough rain. Rain affects the amount of water underground, which can change the amount of iron in that water.

These sources can result in different forms of iron in your water, each with distinct characteristics and treatment requirements.

While iron in drinking water is generally not harmful to your health, it can cause a wide variety of problems:

• Taste, Odor, and Color: Water with high iron content often has a metallic taste and sometimes gives off a rusty odor. According to the Illinois Department of Health, “Dissolved ferrous iron gives water a disagreeable metallic taste. When the iron combines with tea, coffee and other beverages, it produces an inky, black appearance and a harsh, unacceptable taste. Vegetables cooked in water containing excessive iron turn dark and look unappealing.”
• Staining: Iron can leave reddish-brown stains on laundry, plumbing fixtures, and dishes. These stains can be difficult to remove and permanently damage fabrics and surfaces.
• Clogged Pipes: According to the Minnesota Department of Health, “Iron can clog wells, pumps, sprinklers, dishwashers, and other devices over time.” Iron can accumulate in pipes and appliances, leading to reduced water pressure, clogged pipes, and damage to water-using appliances.
• Aesthetic Issues: Iron can give water a cloudy or rusty appearance, making it unappealing for drinking and household use.
• Iron-Loving Bacteria: Sometimes, iron in water helps certain bacteria grow. These bacteria can make a slimy, rusty film that builds up in pipes, leading to more problems that need fixing.
• Dealing with iron in your water is important for two main reasons. First, it helps keep your water looking and tasting good. Second, it protects your pipes and household machines (like washing machines and dishwashers) from getting damaged over time.

Several effective treatment options are available to reduce or eliminate iron from your water supply:

Water Softeners: Standard water softeners can effectively eliminate small amounts of ferrous iron (the type dissolved in water) by swapping it out with sodium. This process works well for low concentrations of iron. However, these systems often fall short when dealing with higher levels of iron or ferric iron, the insoluble form that causes rusty color in water. Different or additional treatment methods may be necessary for these more challenging iron issues.

Reverse Osmosis: Special water filters called reverse osmosis (RO) systems can remove iron and other unwanted contaminants from water. They clean your water right where you use it, giving you better quality drinking water without the iron taste or color.

If you’re dealing with iron in your water, follow these steps to address the issue:

• Test Your Water: Conduct a professional water test for iron to determine the concentration and type of iron in your water.
• Identify the Source: Determine whether the iron comes from your water supply or your home’s plumbing system.
• Consult a Water Treatment Specialist: Based on your water test results, consult a water treatment expert to identify the most effective solution for your needs.
• Install the Appropriate Treatment System: Based on your water’s specific characteristics, choose and install a water treatment system that effectively removes iron.
• Regular Maintenance: Once a treatment system is in place, perform regular maintenance to ensure it functions effectively.

Monitor Water Quality: Periodically test your water to ensure that your treatment system works as intended and that iron levels remain under control.

At Besco Water Treatment, we understand the challenges that iron in water can present. From unsightly stains to the metallic taste and potential damage to your plumbing, iron can be a frustrating problem for any homeowner. That’s why we offer a range of advanced treatment solutions designed to effectively reduce or eliminate iron from your water, ensuring that your home has clean, clear, and great-tasting water.

Our team of water treatment specialists will work with you to identify the best solution for your home, whether that means installing a water softener, an oxidation filtration system, or another tailored option. “We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, reliable water treatment systems that not only solve your water quality issues but also improve the longevity and efficiency of your plumbing and appliances,” says Commercial Operations Manager Brian Noble.

Don’t let the iron in your water compromise your quality of life. Contact Besco Water Treatment today to schedule a free water analysis and discover how we can help you achieve the water quality you deserve. “We’re committed to providing our customers with the best solutions for their water needs,” says General Manager Ken Morgan. “Let us help you enjoy crystal-clear, iron-free water in your home.” Call us at (800) 964-0257 or fill out our online form to request your free water analysis today.