What to do about Iron in Well Water

If your sinks, tubs, or toilets have orange stains, or your water tastes metallic, you’re probably dealing with iron in your well water.

It’s one of the most common well water issues for Houston-area homeowners. And while it’s not usually a health hazard, iron can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing, appliances, and even your confidence in the water you drink.

The Signs of Iron in Your Water

Iron leaves behind visible and frustrating clues:

• Rust-colored stains in sinks, tubs, and toilets

• Metallic taste in drinking water

• Cloudy or discolored water after it sits

• Reduced water flow from clogged pipes and fixtures

• Slime in toilets or tanks, often caused by iron bacteria

Left untreated, iron buildup can shorten the lifespan of your plumbing and appliances.

And seriously.. no one wants their laundry turning orange.

The Three Types of Iron in Houston Well Water

Not all iron is the same, and that’s why a professional test is so important before choosing a solution.

1. Ferrous Iron (Clear-Water Iron)

• Dissolved in water — it looks clear when drawn, but oxidizes and turns orange when exposed to air.

• Requires oxidation and filtration to remove.

2. Ferric Iron (Red-Water Iron)

• Already oxidized and visible as red or brown particles.

• Can be filtered out with the right sediment or iron filter.

3. Iron Bacteria

• A combination of iron and bacteria that forms slimy, rust-colored buildup in pipes and toilets.

• Not dangerous to health, but difficult to remove without disinfection and specialized treatment.

Each type requires a different solution — that’s where professional testing and system design come in.

Why Environmental ProTech

We’ve been fixing iron problems in Houston well water for more than 30 years. We know which areas are most affected, what kind of iron they contain, and which systems last in our local conditions.

When you work with Environmental ProTech, you get:

• Free in-home water testing to determine iron type and levels

• Custom-designed systems that prevent staining and metallic taste

• Professional installation and maintenance so your system performs long-term

Our reviews speak for themselves! If you want clean water from your faucet, contact us at 281-495-4420 to schedule your water test today.

Continue reading about the chemicals in Houston’s water here: What you need to know about: CHLORAMINES