Understanding Your Water

Why is hard water a problem?

Hard water contains high levels of naturally occurring calcium and magnesium. While it is generally safe to drink, it can cause scale buildup, reduce appliance efficiency, make cleaning more difficult, and leave your skin and hair feeling dry after bathing.

Common signs

• White scale buildup on faucets, showerheads, shower doors and kettles
• Spots on dishes and glassware
• Soap does not lather well
• Dry skin and dull hair
• Reduced appliance efficiency

Why are orange stains appearing?

Orange, reddish-brown or rust-coloured stains are commonly caused by elevated iron in the water.

Iron may be present in clear water and become visible only after exposure to air, or the water may already appear yellow, orange or brown.

Although Iron is usually considered an aesthetic concern, it can stain plumbing fixtures, laundry, appliances and exterior surfaces. The correct treatment depends on the amount and form of iron present, along with other water-quality conditions.

Common signs

• Orange or reddish-brown stains on sinks, tubs, toilets and showers
• Rust-coloured marks on laundry or light-coloured fabrics
• Yellow, orange or brown discolouration in the water
• Metallic taste or odour
• Sediment or staining around faucets and plumbing fixtures
• Orange staining on siding, concrete or outdoor surfaces

Why are black stains appearing?

Black staining is often caused by manganese in your water supply. Manganese can leave dark stains on fixtures, laundry, and plumbing while also affecting the taste and overall quality of your water.

Common signs

• Black staining on dishwashers and plumbing fixtures
• Dark staining on laundry
• Metallic or bitter taste
• Black buildup inside toilet tanks
• Staining that returns after cleaning

Why does my water smell like rotten eggs?

A rotten egg or sulphur smell is commonly caused by hydrogen sulphide gas, sulphur bacteria or naturally occurring compounds in groundwater. In some homes, the odour may only occur in the hot water, which can indicate a reaction inside of the water heater rather than the water itself. Professional water testing helps identify the source of the odour and determine the most effective treatment solution.

Common signs

• Sulphur or rotten egg smell
• Strong odour from hot or cold water
• Unpleasant tasting water
• Odour increases after water sits
• Smell throughout the home

Why is my water cloudy?

Cloudy or milky water may be caused by tiny air bubbles, sediment, or naturally occurring minerals. While some causes are harmless, professional water testing can determine whether treatment is needed.

Common signs

• Milky appearance
• Water clears after sitting
• Visible sediment
• Hazy drinking water
• Changes throughout the day

Hot Water Odour? Why does my hot water smell?

Common signs

• Rotten egg or sulphur smell from the hot water
• Cold water does not have the same odour
• Smell is strongest when the hot water first runs
• Odour is noticeable during showers, baths or at hot water faucets
• Unpleasant smell throughout the home when using hot water

Why are blue-green stains appearing?

Blue-green stains are often caused by acidic water (low pH) slowly corroding copper plumbing. Over time, this can leave blue or green staining around sinks, tubs, and drains while potentially shortening the lifespan of your home’s plumbing system. Low pH water may also increase the leaching of metals, including copper and lead, from household plumbing components. Professional water testing can determine your water's pH and identify whether corrective treatment is recommended.

Common signs

• Blue or green stains around sinks, tubs and faucets
• Metallic or bitter taste
• Pinhole leaks in copper pipes
• Corrosion on plumbing fixtures
• Staining around drains
• Premature plumbing repairs or leaks

Why is my water pressure low?

Low water pressure can be caused by several factors including clogged sediment filters, mineral buildup, pressure tank problems, well pump issues, plumbing restrictions or water treatment equipment that requires servicing. In some cases changes in your well's water supply may also affect water pressure.

Because several different issues can produce the same symptoms, identifying the root cause is the first step toward restoring reliable water flow. Professional testing and a system inspection help determine the most appropriate solution.

Common signs

• Weak water flow from faucets and showers
• Poor shower pressure
• Slow-filling bathtubs, washing machines or appliances
• Pressure that changes throughout the day
• Reduced water flow throughout the home
• Pressure that has gradually decreased over time.

Could Coliform Bacteria or E.coli be in your well water?

Unlike staining or odours, bacteria usually can’t be seen, tasted, or smelled. Laboratory testing is the only reliable way to determine whether bacteria such as Total Coliform or E. coli are present in your well water.

Common signs

• Recent heavy rainfall or flooding
• Changes to your well or plumbing system
• Recent well repairs or new well construction
• Surface water collecting around your well
• A failed laboratory bacteria test
• Concerns about your drinking water safety
• A change in your water's appearance, taste or odour

Concerned about arsenic and uranium in your well water?

Arsenic and uranium occur naturally in the bedrock throughout many areas of Nova Scotia and may be present in private well water. Because these contaminants are colourless, odourless and tasteless, laboratory testing is the only reliable way to determine whether they are present.

Approximately 46% of Nova Scotias rely on private wells for their drinking water, making regular water testing an important part of protecting your households water quality.

Common signs