If you’re on a well, then you’re probably in a constant battle with rust stains and the metallic taste of iron in your drinking glass. We know that sometimes, it gets old; the constant scrubbing to avoid yellow on your shower walls, the build up around your kitchen sink, and the funky way it all gets worse after a hard rain. You’re not alone. Iron is one of the most common contaminants found in private wells across California. And while it isn’t typically harmful to your health, it can be a major nuisance. So, how do you remove iron from well water?
From discolored laundry and stained fixtures to clogged pipes and appliance damage, excess iron can make everyday water use frustrating and costly. The good news? There are a few proven ways to remove iron from well water and protect your home. Let’s walk you through how to remove iron from well water, what treatment options work best, and how to get clear, clean water flowing from your taps again.
Signs You Have Iron in Your Well Water
You probably are already pretty sure you have iron in your well, but if you’re still questioning it don’t worry. Iron in well water often makes itself known through visible and sensory cues. One of the most common signs is reddish-brown or orange staining on sinks, tubs, toilets, and laundry. And trust us, you won’t have to question if it’s there; you’ll know. These rust-colored marks are not only unsightly but can be difficult to remove. You might also notice a metallic taste in your drinking water or experience an unpleasant odor, sometimes described as musty and often similar to rotten eggs. This is especially true if iron bacteria are present.
Other signs include cloudy or discolored water straight from the tap, reduced water pressure due to iron buildup in pipes, and clogging or early failure of water-using appliances like dishwashers or washing machines. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a strong indicator that iron may be affecting your water quality, and it’s time to consider testing your well water to confirm the source and concentration.
Types of Iron Found in Well Water
Not all iron is created equal. Which is why the type of iron present in your well water is key to choosing the right filtration method. There are three main forms:
- Ferrous Iron (Clear-Water Iron): This type of iron is dissolved in the water, so it looks clear when it comes out of the tap. However, when exposed to air, it oxidizes and turns reddish-brown, leaving stains on sinks, tubs, and laundry.
- Ferric Iron (Red-Water Iron): Unlike ferrous iron, ferric iron has already oxidized and is visible in the water. It appears as rusty-colored particles or sediment and is more easily filtered out because it’s in a solid state.
- Iron Bacteria: These naturally occurring microorganisms feed on iron and create a slimy, rusty buildup in plumbing and fixtures. While not harmful to your health, they can cause serious clogging and unpleasant smells. Or even gunky buildup in your drains.
Each type of iron requires a different treatment approach, which is why professional testing is so important. Knowing what you’re dealing with helps ensure you invest in the right solution to effectively remove iron from your well water and prevent long-term damage to your home’s plumbing and appliances.
Testing Your Water for Iron
Before you rush out to pick a treatment system, it’s helpful to first confirm whether iron is present in your well water at all, identify the type, as well as the concentration. A simple water test can reveal not only iron levels but also other key factors like pH, manganese, hardness, and the presence of iron bacteria; all of which impact the effectiveness of filtration methods.
Professional testing will also help determine if you need a single filtration solution or a combination of systems to tackle your specific water issues. With clear results in hand, you’ll be able to choose the most effective system to remove iron, protect your plumbing, and improve the quality of your household water.
How to Remove Iron from Well Water: Our Favorite Solution
At AAA Water Systems, our go-to recommendation for removing iron from well water is a Kinetico® multi-stage filtration system. Why? Because it’s a powerful, low-maintenance solution that combines iron removal with overall water conditioning. Which makes it perfect for households dealing with rust stains, metallic tastes, and clogged fixtures.
Kinetico’s system uses air-induction oxidation to convert dissolved iron into particles that can be easily filtered out. It doesn’t rely on electricity, which means it keeps working even during power outages. The system also includes a specialized media filter designed to trap iron, manganese, and even traces of sulfur, helping eliminate both visible staining and foul odors.
We often pair this filtration with a Kinetico water softener to tackle hard water minerals that frequently accompany iron in well water. This combo not only improves water clarity and taste, but also helps extend the life of plumbing and appliances. Plus it leaves skin and hair feeling softer.
This solution is effective, efficient, and built to last with minimal upkeep. If your well water has tested positive for iron, this system is worth a serious look.
Want to know if it’s right for your home? Schedule a free water test and we’ll help you decide.
