3 Signs Your Drinking Water Has too Much Iron

Having high-quality drinking water ensures every glass is healthy and refreshing. However, removing contaminants from the supply also helps you maintain your plumbing fixtures and clean your belongings. While a large amount of iron in water isn’t a health concern for most people, it can damage your appliances and stain clothes. Here are several indications that your water’s iron levels are too high.



How Can You Identify Excess Iron in Water?

1. Metallic Taste

One of the most noticeable signs of excess iron is a metallic taste. While this can make your normal drinking water unpleasant, it may also alter the flavor of foods that you cook in water, such as pasta. It may even turn vegetables black if you boil them and cause them to have a strong, unappealing taste. If you regularly drink tea or coffee, you may find that preparing these beverages with your tap water also produces a black, inky appearance and off-putting flavor. While this is not harmful, it can ruin your favorite drinks and dishes until you remove the iron from the system.

2. Stains

Iron-heavy water leaves a red, orange, or brown color on plumbing fixtures. This is most noticeable around the faucets and drains, and without regular cleaning, the residue can stain your sinks, bathtubs, and toilets. You may also see the unsightly marks on your cutlery and dishware. If the concentration of iron is high enough, the water may even stain your laundry after you run it through the washing machine. This is especially dangerous for white and light-colored clothing because the iron can permanently discolor these garments.

3. Dry Skin

Water that is rich in iron is harder, which means it can interfere with the soap you use when bathing. These minerals prevent the detergent from lathering, preventing you from rinsing it off efficiently. When the soap lingers on your skin, it draws moisture out, leading to dry skin and irritation. You may notice red, itchy patches on your body after showering or a slimy feeling on your hair.

If you need help enhancing the quality of your drinking water, contact McAleer Water Conditioning Inc. in Anamosa, IA. They serve residents throughout Jones, Linn, Dubuque, Delaware, and Jackson counties, offering a range of water softening and filtration services. Visit them online for more information about their services. Call (800) 397-1995 to speak with a team member about your needs.