Why Is My Well Water Yellow After Heavy Rain?

After a heavy rainstorm, you may notice that your well water is a brown or yellowish color. Any change to the color or taste of your well water is concerning and needs to be addressed because it can be a sign of contamination and can lead to health problems.

If you’re asking yourself, why is my well water yellow after heavy rain, there are a few possible reasons. The team at A&T Well and Pump is committed to making sure your water is always safe for you to drink and use. You and your family’s health is extremely important, so you shouldn’t run the risk of your own water making you sick. This is why we’re taking a closer look at what may cause yellow well water after heavy rain and what you can do about it.

If Your Well Water is Yellow, Ask Yourself These Questions First

After asking yourself these questions and if none pertain to your situation, it’s time to dig a little deeper.

Reasons Why Your Well Water is Yellow After Heavy Rain

If you run your water after heavy rain and notice it’s not the clear color it was before the storm, there could be several reasons why this is happening.

Surface Water Contamination

When your water is discolored after heavy rain, it could be because surface water is leaking into your well supply. This runoff could contain harmful contaminants such as pesticides and animal waste that are causing your yellow water. Your water may also be affected by the water quality of local rivers and streams, as well as pipelines and sewers. 

Bacterial Contamination

Bacterial contamination may be another reason why your water is yellow if you or your neighbors’ septic system is being overwhelmed by rain. When this happens, bacterial infections such as fecal coliform and E. coli can develop.

Presence of Iron and Manganese

While iron and manganese are common minerals found in well water, they can react when they are exposed to oxygen or when they get stirred up from sediment. This can lead to a yellowish tint in your water.

Decaying organic materials from leaves and plants can also seep into the groundwater, leading to yellow water.

Damaged Well

If your well is damaged or there is deteriorating grout, a large void in the well can form, allowing surface water to enter. When this happens, it can lead to discolored water. If this is the case, the team at A&T Well and Pump can come out to your property to determine whether a well repair or a well replacement is necessary. 

Health Concerns of Yellow Well Water

If you notice yellow well water after heavy rains or at any other time, do not use it. It can lead to several health concerns, such as:

• Bacteria & Viruses: Pathogens from surface runoff can lead to gastrointestinal issues such as cramps, diarrhea, and fever.
• Nitrate Exposure: If there are nitrates in the water, high levels can pose risks to infants and pregnant women.
• Arsenic and Lead Exposure: Any heavy runoff can lead to the presence of arsenic and lead. Researchers have linked arsenic and lead exposure to serious health problems such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.

Why is My Well Water Yellow After Heavy Rain? 4 Ways to Fix the Problem

Considering the health issues that yellow water after rain can lead to, you’ll want to fix the problem as soon as possible. Here are some things you can do:

Get Your Water Tested

A thorough water test will help identify the nature of the problem. It’s recommended to test your water at least once a year, so if you’re experiencing water discoloration, it is an absolute must. 

Fix Any Leaks

Well leaks are often caused by a bad seal on the well cap, well casing, or deteriorated grout. Older wells were often installed without grout surrounding the pipe, and even older wells are often shallow enough to experience these types of issues more often. It’s important to fix the root problem and disinfect the well after you do. Regardless of what the water test and inspection reveal, you need to make sure that the water drains away from the well head to prevent similar future issues. This is why well heads installed in a pit are more prone to these types of issues, but an extension that raises the height of the well head can be installed.

Check For Sediment

Put water from your faucet in a cup and let it sit on the counter. If you notice sediment is settling at the bottom, you are likely dealing with mineral contamination or soil infiltration. If this is the case, you’ll want to get a professional from A&T Well and Pump to your home so we can determine the best way to fix the problem.

Consider Water Filtration

Installing a water filtration system in your home can remove sediment and other impurities from your water. Well water filtration can also remove calcium and magnesium found in hard water. A water filtration system can ensure that your water is safe for cooking, bathing, and drinking.

Get Your Well Cleaned

If your well is contaminated due to the effects of heavy rain, you may need to get it disinfected. This will kill bacteria and other microorganisms that may be living in your well.

Do You Have Yellow Well Water? Contact the Team at A&T Well and Pump

If you notice discoloration of your well water and are asking yourself, why is well water yellow after heavy rain, A&T Well and Pump can help. Our experienced technicians can test your water, inspect the well, and make any necessary repairs to return your water to its natural color. If you live in the greater Raleigh, NC area and are experiencing discolored water, contact us today by calling 919-291-4063 or by filling out the contact form below.