Mineral Staining: Causes and Solutions
Do you see orange or black staining around the drains in your porcelain fixtures? Chances are this is caused by high levels of iron or manganese in your water. Orange or red stains are indicative of high levels of iron; black or gray stains indicate high manganese levels. Mineral staining is primarily an aesthetic problem; however, iron deposits can build up over time in your plumbing, causing restricted water flow and early deterioration of fixtures and appliances. In the laundry, white clothing washed in water with that has high iron content will add an orange hue. Chlorine bleach and other laundry products that normally whitens clothing can actually accelerate the staining process when iron is present in the water.
Causes of Mineral Staining
“If there is iron in my water, why isn’t my water orange?” Iron and manganese are metallic elements that are commonly found in the earth’s crust. They are easily dissolved in water and carried through fissures in the rock and then deposited into your well. These fine particles are clear until oxidation occurs – when they change from colorless, dissolved forms to colored, solid forms.
Other causes of water staining. If you see blue staining in your sink, it is possible your water is acidic. As the water sits for a period of time, the acidic water draws a patina out of the copper in your pipes. In the case of blue staining, we would recommend an acid neutralizer.
Managing Mineral Staining
Mineral staining can be managed. Having elevated levels of iron in your water is not harmful, but it does create a nuisance and damage. Getting rid of the stains once water has left the tap can be frustrating. Homes which have iron in the water will also typically have hard water. This makes a grueling job of cleaning bathtubs, sinks, and dishwashers. Soaps and detergent don’t work well for removing the stains. Chlorine bleach and alkaline boosters should be avoided, as they can make the problem worse. Household water that is hard and staining will need to use harsh cleaners like Glisten or Super Iron Out. Natural remedies like vinegar may also work for removing mineral stains.
Want to get rid of mineral staining once and for all? The best approach for tackling a mineral staining problem is first to call Absolute Water System and have us perform a targeted water test to determine the levels of iron and manganese in the water. A pH water test for acidity and a water hardness test are also recommended at the same time.
Not only will our custom-designed sulfur oxidizing water treatment system correct the mineral staining problem, but it will also remove smells and odors and improve the quality of your home’s water!
