Got Iron in Your Water? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you've ever noticed reddish-brown stains in your sinks or toilets, metallic-tasting water, or clothes coming out of the wash with orange streaks — there's a good chance iron is present in your water supply. While iron isn’t toxic, it can wreak havoc on your plumbing, appliances, and peace of mind.
Let’s break down where iron comes from, what it means for your home, and how to get rid of it for good.
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Iron is a naturally occurring element that often enters water supplies through:
Groundwater sources: Iron is common in wells, especially in areas with high iron-bearing rock or soil.
Corroding pipes: Old cast iron or galvanized steel pipes can release iron as they break down over time.
Municipal systems: While less common, even public water systems can sometimes carry small amounts of iron, especially if infrastructure is aging.
In Central New Jersey, iron is one of the most common contaminants found during well water testing.
Not sure if you’re dealing with iron? Look for these telltale signs:
Reddish or orange stains in sinks, toilets, bathtubs, and around drains
Rust-colored water when you turn on a tap
Laundry stains — especially on white clothing
Metallic taste in your drinking water
Reduced water pressure or clogged faucet screens from sediment buildup
Musty or metallic odors from hot or cold water taps
Removing iron isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. The right treatment depends on the type and concentration of iron in your water. Here’s what works best:
1. Water Testing
Start with a professional water test. At Patterson’s Water & Plumbing, we offer FREE 10-minute in-home tests and NJ DEP Certified well water testing. This tells us exactly what kind of iron (ferric or ferrous) is present and at what levels.
2. Iron Filtration Systems
Once we know what we’re working with, we typically recommend:
Backwashing Iron Filters: These systems use air or oxidizing media to trap and flush iron out of the water.
Water Softeners: Effective when iron levels are low and paired with other minerals like hardness or manganese.
Chemical Injection Systems: Used for higher levels of iron, these systems use chlorine or hydrogen peroxide to oxidize and remove iron.
3. Routine Maintenance
To keep your water iron-free, your filtration system must be properly maintained. That means media replacement, salt refills (if applicable), and annual servicing — all of which we handle for you.
Letting iron linger in your water supply may not seem urgent — but it can lead to costly problems over time:
Plumbing System Damage
Iron sediment builds up in pipes, reducing water flow and causing clogs.
Appliances like water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines wear out faster.
Corrosion and staining can make fixtures look old and dirty — even when they're clean.
Impact on Your Family
Water that tastes or smells metallic discourages healthy hydration.
Iron-loving bacteria can grow in your water supply, creating slime and biofilm.
Stains on clothing, bathtubs, and sinks become nearly impossible to remove.
Iron may be a naturally occurring mineral, but you don’t have to live with the mess it causes. At Patterson’s Water & Plumbing, we specialize in water testing, treatment, and long-term maintenance solutions that eliminate iron at the source.
Let us put your water — and your home — back in good hands.