Tests to order in IL
- Iron
- pH
- Total coliform
- Iron bacteria
Illinois well water problem / Orange or Rust Stains from Well Water
Orange or Rust Stains from Well Water in Illinois
Sinks, tubs, toilets, or laundry develop orange-brown stains. For Illinois private wells, the safest path is to match the symptom with lab testing before choosing treatment.
Likely causes
- Iron
- Iron bacteria
- Corrosive plumbing
What to do next
- Confirm dissolved vs particulate iron
- Inspect toilet tanks for slime
- Compare softener vs iron filter options
Related Illinois well water topics
Rotten Egg Smell in Well Water
Water smells like rotten eggs, sulfur, or sewage.
Black Stains in Well Water
Black staining appears on fixtures, laundry, or toilet tanks.
Blue-Green Stains from Well Water
Blue or green stains appear around drains and fixtures.
Salty Tasting Well Water
Water tastes salty, brackish, or mineral-heavy.
Metallic Taste in Well Water
Water tastes metallic, bitter, or like pennies.
Cloudy or Milky Well Water
Water looks cloudy, white, or milky in a glass.
Keep your well history
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Track symptoms and lab results in the app