Why Is My Water Yellow? Understanding Yellow Water in Cleveland and Surrounding Areas
If you live in Rocky River, Fairview, Bay Village, or other communities served by the Cleveland Water Department, you may have recently noticed yellow or discolored water coming from your taps. While it can be alarming, this yellow water is a common and well-understood issue related to how the water is sourced and treated.
What Causes Yellow Water?
Cleveland’s drinking water comes from Lake Erie, where intake cribs located several feet below the surface draw water into the treatment plants. At these deeper levels, the water tends to be hypoxic, meaning it has low oxygen content. This environment allows iron and manganese—naturally occurring minerals dissolved in the water—to accumulate.
When this mineral-rich, low-oxygen water is pumped through the system, iron and manganese react with oxygen, causing the water to take on a yellow, brown, or reddish tint. This discoloration is not harmful to your health but can cause staining of sinks, laundry, and give water an unusual taste or odor.
Why Does This Happen More Often Now?
During certain times of the year or following maintenance like hydrant flushing, shifts in water flow can stir up sediment and minerals in the pipes, making the yellow tint more noticeable. Aging infrastructure in some neighborhoods can also contribute to temporary discoloration.
What Is Being Done About It?
The Cleveland Water Department is actively working to improve water quality by upgrading the intake system to draw water from shallower, oxygen-rich depths of Lake Erie. This change will help reduce the amount of iron and manganese entering the system and minimize yellow water incidents.
What Can You Do If You Have Yellow Water?
Run cold water taps for several minutes until the water runs clear.
Avoid using hot water during discoloration events to protect your water heater.
If discoloration persists or you have concerns about water quality, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Need Peace of Mind? Pro Service Plumbing Can Help!
At Pro Service Plumbing, we understand how important clean, clear water is for your home and family. That’s why we offer free in-home water testing to help identify any water quality issues and provide expert advice on solutions.
If you’re experiencing yellow water or want to ensure your water is safe and clean, contact us today. We’re here to help you enjoy fresh, healthy water every day.
