Why Is My Water Brown? What Houston Homeowners Need to Know

Brown Water from the Tap? Here’s What It Means (and What to Do About It)

Turning on your faucet only to see brown or rusty water can be unsettling. Is it safe? What caused it? And more importantly—how do you fix it?

If you live in Houston or the surrounding areas, the problem often lies within your plumbing—especially if your home still has galvanized steel pipes, which are notorious for corrosion over time.

Let’s break down what causes brown water and how We Do Repipes can help restore your home’s water quality quickly and affordably.

 
brown water

1. Common Causes of Brown Water in Houston Homes

➤ Corroded Galvanized Pipes

Older homes in Houston often have galvanized plumbing, which rusts from the inside out. That rust flakes off into your water, especially when pipes are disturbed or water pressure fluctuates. If you notice brown water only in certain faucets—or when using hot water—it’s likely your internal plumbing.

✅ Fix: A whole-house repipe with modern PEX piping solves the issue for good.

➤ Sediment in the Water Supply

Houston’s municipal water comes from surface water sources that carry natural sediment. During droughts, heavy rains, or nearby construction, sediment can get stirred up and enter your home’s supply.

✅ Fix: If the discoloration is temporary and city-wide, it may clear up on its own. If it persists in your home only, it’s likely a pipe issue.

➤ Water Heater Buildup

Brown water coming only from hot water taps? That suggests sediment buildup in your water heater tank, particularly if it hasn’t been flushed regularly.

✅ Fix: Flush or replace the water heater. We can refer a trusted pro if needed.

➤ Municipal Maintenance or Fire Hydrant Use

Nearby fire hydrant use or maintenance on city water lines can temporarily stir up rust and sediment.

✅ Fix: Run cold water for 10–15 minutes. If it doesn’t clear, your home’s pipes may be the problem.

2. Is Brown Water Safe to Use or Drink?

Brown water usually isn’t immediately harmful, but it may:

  • Stain laundry and fixtures

  • Have a metallic taste or odor

  • Carry bacteria if corrosion has led to pipe breaches

If it lasts more than 24 hours or returns frequently, it’s time to get your plumbing inspected.

3. When to Call a Pro in the Houston Area

If your water is:

  • Brown every morning

  • Discolored after pressure drops

  • Limited to hot water only

  • Worse in one area of the home

  • Or hasn’t cleared in over 24 hours

…you may need to repipe your home.

4. How We Fix Brown Water Issues at We Do Repipes

We specialize in whole-home repiping throughout the Greater Houston area. In most cases, we replace old galvanized or corroded copper pipes with PEX piping in just 1–2 days, with minimal disruption to your daily life.

✅ No cutting into every wall
✅ Guaranteed upfront pricing
✅ 40% off repipe promotions available
✅ Lifetime warranty on parts and labor

Don’t Ignore Brown Water—Fix It for Good

If you're seeing rusty or discolored water, it’s often your home’s way of saying, “Help—I’m aging!” The good news? You don’t have to live with it.

We Do Repipes is Houston’s trusted expert in restoring clean, reliable water to homes across the city. Call us today or schedule your free quote online.

Call Now: (832) 819-8337 to speak with an expert.