Rusty Water Causes and Fixes: What It Means for Your Home Plumbing

When you turn on the tap and see rusty water, discolored water caused by iron oxide buildup in pipes or water heaters. Also known as brown water, it's a common sign that your plumbing system is aging or corroding. It’s not just a visual problem—rusty water can stain sinks, ruin laundry, and even affect the taste of your drinking water. While it’s often harmless in small amounts, persistent rust points to deeper issues that can lead to leaks, reduced water pressure, or even a failing water heater.

The main culprits behind rusty water are pipe corrosion, the breakdown of metal pipes over time due to water chemistry and age, and water heater sediment, mineral buildup that reacts with metal tank lining, causing rust to mix with hot water. Older homes with galvanized steel pipes are especially prone to this, as those pipes naturally rust from the inside out after 20–30 years. Even newer systems with iron or steel components can develop rust if the water is acidic or has high iron content. If you notice rusty water only from the hot tap, your water heater is likely the source. If it’s in both hot and cold, the problem is probably in your main supply lines or street connection.

Fixing rusty water starts with simple steps: flush your water heater, clean aerators on faucets, and check if the discoloration clears after running water for a few minutes. If it doesn’t, you might need professional help to test water quality or inspect your pipes. Ignoring it can lead to bigger problems—like a water heater failure or burst pipe—both of which are far more expensive than early intervention. The posts below cover real cases from homeowners who dealt with this exact issue, from diagnosing the source to knowing when to replace a tank instead of just cleaning it. You’ll find clear, step-by-step guides on what to check, what tools you might need, and when to call in a pro instead of trying to fix it yourself.