Fe
Orange, red or brown stains
Dissolved iron, iron particles, manganese and plumbing corrosion can create different patterns. Learn what to record and test.
Symptom guide
Notice the clues. Confirm the cause.
Many well-water problems look or smell alike. Use these observations to organize your next steps—not to replace laboratory testing.
H₂S
Rotten-egg or sulfur odor
Check whether the smell comes from hot water, cold water, one fixture or the whole house before choosing a response.
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Cloudy water or visible sediment
Let a clear glass stand. Air bubbles generally rise and disappear; particles settle or remain suspended. Persistent or sudden sediment warrants inspection and testing, particularly after flooding, construction or well work.
Ca
Scale, spots and poor soap performance
Hardness is commonly associated with calcium and magnesium. A quantitative hardness result is more useful than guessing from white residue alone.
pH
Blue-green stains and corrosion
Low pH and corrosive water may contribute to copper or lead entering water from plumbing. Ask a certified laboratory about proper first-draw sampling.
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No visible warning sign
Some harmful contaminants have no taste, smell or color. That is why routine testing remains important even when water appears clear.
Remember: clear water is not necessarily safe water, and unpleasant water is not always a health hazard. Testing separates nuisance conditions from health concerns.