The possibility that there's a problem with your drinking water system can leave you looking for answers. Before you decide on a drinking water system repair project in your future, though, you can follow these 5 simple steps to determine if there's an issue.
Check for Sputtering Faucets
Any air trapped in the lines is likely to cause a disruption in the flow of the water. Air can find its way into systems at compromised joints or valves, and it may even be coming in from outside sources. Especially if there was a recent change in water pressure, such as when municipal water has to be shut off to do repairs, it may be best to run the water for 5 to 10 minutes to see if the air gets out of the lines. Otherwise, you have to have the lines flushed and repressurized by a drinking water system services technician.
Noises
Sometimes lines will make growling, groaning, squealing, or thumping sounds. This is often indicative of pressure feeding back in the system, and it's wise to have a technician check the situation out immediately to verify that pressure isn't building up.
Leaks
It's also possible that a pressure issue has found a way to solve itself. This can happen when water finds a new path through a faulty valve, poorly secured pipe threads, or even a hole. If you see any signs of water leaking, contact a pro right away.
Weird Smells or Tastes
Despite how thoroughly treated American drinking water is, stagnation can still occur in lines. This can lead to bacteria building up in the water, and that ultimately manifests as unusual smells or tastes in the water. Some minerals can also lead to similar problems. If there's anything funky about the smell or taste of your water, stop drinking it and call a professional.
Discoloration and Cloudiness
Cloudiness is another sign that bacteria may be growing in your drinking water. Discolorations, on the other hand, are usually caused by soft metals or minerals. Rusty-colored water is an especially bad sign because it may be indicative of lead in the water.
Should you see discoloration and are on municipal water, ask your neighbors if they're seeing similar issues. If they say yes, then you'll need to contact your local water authority. If they say no, then you're likely dealing with an issue exclusively at your location, such as old pipes.