Nothing’s quite as unsettling as turning on your faucet only to be met with brown or murky water instead of the crystal-clear flow you expect. But why is it happening? Is it dangerous? Can you fix it yourself, or is it time to call in the professionals? In this post, we’ll break down the common causes behind dirty water, steps you can take to troubleshoot, and when it’s time to call for professional help.

Dirty water isn’t just unpleasant—it can also be a red flag for potential issues with your plumbing, pipes, or even your well pump. Here are some typical causes that may explain the muddy mess in your glass.



• Sediment in the Water Supply
  Dirt, sand, and other sediments can naturally collect in your water source, especially in well systems. If your well has been disturbed (say, after heavy rainfall), sediment can get into the system and find its way to your faucet.
• Old Pipes or Corrosion
  Aging pipes in your plumbing can rust over time, leading to rust particles mixing with your water. This commonly results in a brown or reddish tint.
• Issues with Your Well Pump
  If you’re on a well system, the pump plays a big role in keeping your water clean. Malfunctions or aging in well pumps can lead to sediment leaks or mechanical wear, both of which contribute to dirty water.

Seeing these warning signs? Consider calling a professional to assess the source of contamination in your system.

Let’s cut to the chase: seeing murky water can leave you wondering if it's safe to drink or use for cooking. Here’s what you need to consider when deciding whether or not it’s okay to use.

• Chemical vs. Sediment Contamination
  Sediment in water might not be harmful if it’s just sand or dirt. However, it’s impossible to tell by sight alone. Chemical contamination—like iron or lead—poses a more serious health risk, especially if your water smells metallic or appears oily.
• Bacterial Concerns
  Water contamination from bacteria, such as E. coli, is rare in modern systems but possible, especially if your well pump is outdated. If you’re seeing dark water combined with an unpleasant odor, avoid using the water and contact a professional to test your system.

For peace of mind, if your water looks anything other than clear, avoid drinking it and consider reaching out for a professional water quality test.

Before diving into panic mode, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to see if the problem can be quickly resolved. Here’s what to try:



• Run the Water
  Sometimes, sediment can build up in pipes if they’ve gone unused for a while. Try running the cold water for a few minutes to see if it clears up.
• Check Multiple Faucets
  Determine if the problem is isolated to a single faucet or is affecting the entire house. If it’s just one tap, the issue may be localized and easier to resolve.
• Inspect the Hot and Cold Water Separately
  If only your hot water is murky, the issue could be within your water heater. This is often due to sediment buildup in the heater, which might mean it’s time to flush it out or replace it altogether.
• Look for Recent Maintenance or Repairs
  Sometimes, after pipe work or repairs, water can be discolored due to disturbed sediment in the pipes.

If these steps don’t clear things up, the problem might be more serious, and professional diagnosis may be your best bet.

For those with well systems, your well pump might be the silent culprit behind dirty water. A well pump that’s outdated, damaged, or improperly sealed can let in contaminants from outside. Here’s how to know if your well pump is the root of your murky water issues:

Signs of a Faulty Well Pump

• Reduced Water Pressure: If your pump is struggling, you might notice low water pressure or inconsistent flow.
• Increased Sediment: Older pumps may let sediment into the water due to worn parts.
• Frequent Power Cycling: A pump that frequently powers on and off could be nearing the end of its life.

If any of these issues sound familiar, it may be time to replace your well pump. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help keep your water clean and prevent pump problems.

If you’ve tried troubleshooting, and dirty water is still coming from your faucets, it’s time to call in a professional. At Matt Meek LLC, we offer expert well pump repairs and a full range of plumbing services, including water heater repair and water softener system installation, in Hartsville, IN, and the surrounding areas. Don’t wait until small issues become major headaches; let our experienced team handle it.

Give us a call today at (812) 344-3559, and we’ll help you get back to clean, safe water. Whether you’re dealing with an old well pump, need a water quality test, or want to install a water softener, we’ve got you covered.