Why Is My Bath Water Brown? 4 Reasons Why and How to Fix It

Nothing helps you wind down at the end of the day quite like a nice, relaxing bath—until you notice the water is anything but crystal clear. While seeing dark-hued H2O coming out of the tap is enough to make anyone squeamish, take heart. Chances are there’s a logical (and un-scary) explanation. Let’s dive into the reasons your bath water is brown, and what you can do about it.

1. Rusty Pipes or Water Heater Tank 

Most of the time, brown bath water is from rust or iron buildup. If the brown water lasts longer than a day or seems to be getting gradually worse over time, you’ll need to find the source. To zero in, check if both your hot and cold water are brown. If it’s only your hot water, the buildup is likely in your water heater, not your pipes. In such a case, you may need to contact a local water heater repair pro.

How to Fix It 

• Call a pro to flush your water heater.

• They may also check your pipes by opening junctions or with a camera. 

• Ask whether adding a water softener may help.

2. Your City Flushed the Fire Hydrants 

This reason for brown bath water isn’t the first thing people think of, but it happens surprisingly often, usually in the summer. Fire hydrants need to be flushed to ensure high water quality and eliminate any rust build-up in the system. 

How to Fix It 

• Ask your neighbors. Other people will have the same problem if it's the local pipes. 

• Wait an hour or so, then run a few taps and flush toilets to clear the system. 

3. Faulty Filters

This is more common in homes with well water—or another type of private water system—than ones running on a municipal system. Most filters only last 6 months to a year, so if you haven’t replaced them lately, it may be time for a swap. If you replaced them recently, make sure they’re properly installed. If you’re sure your filters are in good condition and installed well, follow the filter to the well itself—there may be problems there. 

How to Fix It 

• Check and replace old filters. 

• Make sure the well itself isn’t throwing off rust. 

• If the problem persists, a local well pump contractor can help.

4. Iron Buildup

Homes have many pipes and water sources, which are all excellent places for iron to build up over time. The iron in the water reacts with oxygen and oxidizes, turning it brown. This is less of an issue in urban zones where the city more heavily filters water before it enters your home. Iron buildup in pipes, unfortunately, often requires you to replace that section of pipe. 

How to Fix It 

• Try installing a water softener to prevent further buildup. 

• You may need a plumber to replace sections of plumbing. 

• Call your city and see if anyone else is having the same problem.

When to Call a Pro 

Brown bath water can clear up on its own, but if it doesn’t after a day or so and none of your DIY fixes prove successful, it’s time to call a local plumbing repair pro to address the issue and ensure your water is safe.