Knowing your water’s appearance, taste, and smell will help you recognize the early signs of contamination. However, many dangerous contaminants, such as lead, are odorless, tasteless, and invisible. To be sure your water is the best it can be, consider having it routinely tested by a professional who can recommend effective water treatment methods.

Visual Signs

Cloudy, murky, or foamy water indicates the presence of suspended particles. This includes dirt, silt, dust, or harmful microorganisms. On the other hand, an oily film on the water’s surface can indicate the presence of petroleum products or other contaminants that don’t mix with water.

The color of the water also offers clues about contamination. Brown or orange water is typically the result of rust, which can come from corroded iron pipes. It can also indicate the presence of lead. Green or blue water is a sign of high levels of copper, which is due to corrosion within your plumbing system.

Mineral deposits, like scale or scum buildup, on fixtures or showerheads, are often due to high mineral levels. Hard water can affect taste and signal the presence of other contaminants. You may even notice red or green stains on your laundry or dishes from excess iron.

Odor and Taste

A sulfurous odor, which smells like rotten eggs, is usually caused by hydrogen sulfide gas. This gas can naturally occur, but it can also be a sign of certain types of bacteria. A bitter or metallic flavor is often due to corroding pipes releasing metals such as copper or lead, while a salty taste might be due to a high concentration of sodium or chloride.

While municipal water is treated with chlorine, an overpowering odor of bleach can indicate excess chlorine or harmful chemical byproducts. A chemical taste or smell may also signal the presence of a pesticide or an imbalance of certain chemicals.

Symptoms of Waterborne Illness

If you or your family experience sudden, unexplained health issues, contaminated water could be the cause. Nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and persistent diarrhea are common symptoms of waterborne pathogens. Irritated skin, rashes, and other issues can result from exposure to certain contaminants during bathing. Furthermore, flu-like symptoms can be associated with waterborne disease.

Trust Us for Your Water Testing

The only surefire way to know if your water is contaminated is to have it professionally tested. If there is a contamination problem, a reverse osmosis installation can effectively remove the contaminants from your water. Call Aqua Gold Water Treatment in Muncie, IN today to learn more about how a reverse osmosis installation can improve your water.