Why Is My Bathwater Yellow?
It is not uncommon for a bathtub to turn yellow over time, and more often than not this has to do with all the fluids that come into contact with your tub. There are many causes and solutions for this problem, and it is important to understand each one in order to decide which solution will work best for your particular tub.
The main reason that a bathtub will turn yellow is rusting of the metal or porcelain enamel, which will gradually form a chalky, powdery layer on top of the metal. This is usually caused by minerals in the water staying in the tub, rather than evaporating or draining out with each bath or shower. The minerals bond to the surface of the tub and begin to build up over time, causing it to turn yellowish-brown. A rusting tub can also produce an unpleasant, pungent odor.
The most common way to prevent or remove mineral buildup in a bathtub is to use a water softener. This will reduce the amount of minerals that are inside the water itself, preventing them from staying in your bathwater for too long and eventually causing stains. Distilled or deionized water may not need to be softened before use and is the best water for preventing stains on a bathtub.
Is Yellow Bathwater Safe for Bathing?
When you turn on your hot water tap and notice a yellowish tint, you may be worried that your bathtub is not safe for bathing in. In most cases, this discoloration is because the salts from hard water have been left sitting in the tub instead of being washed away with each shower or bath. While this may be unsafe in some cases, it is safe to bathe in yellow bathwater in most situations.
The minerals that cause the bathwater to turn yellow may be caused by water heater corrosion or metal plumbing concerns. If you notice that your bathtub turns yellow more often than usual, you should have all of your plumbing checked for signs of corrosion. That is where Waldman Plumbing And Heating comes in.
Is Yellow Water Safe for Drinking?
Some yellow water is safe for drinking, but the discoloration may indicate an underlying problem. If you notice your bathtub water turning yellow only now and then, you should not be concerned as long as it dissipates within a few minutes.
Since yellow water can also be caused by old age, you should always thoroughly clean out your bathtub after each use. You can do this using a mild detergent that is free of chemicals or abrasives. Avoid using oven cleaner or rust remover to clean your tub, as these could cause more problems than they solve.
Worried about Yellow Bathwater? Contact Waldman Plumbing And Heating Today
If you are worried about the color of your bathwater, contact Waldman Plumbing today. We offer comprehensive plumbing services throughout the North Shore area. Whether you need to install a new fixture or simply want to ensure that your pipes are corrosion-free, our professional plumbers are here to set the record straight once and for all. We are more than happy to help!