- HEP Plumbing
- Discolored Water

Discolored Water
Discolored Water | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Harriman
When the tap runs brown or carries a metallic taste, it’s often a sign that aging lines in your Harriman home are leaching rust and sediment into your water supply. HEP’s plumbing pros track down the root of that discoloration—whether it’s a corroded galvanized line, failing copper joint, or mineral-packed PEX—and replace the trouble spots with modern materials that keep water crystal-clear and odor-free.
These targeted pipe upgrades restore pressure, protect appliances, and add value to your property in a single, minimally disruptive visit. From the first camera inspection to the final flush, you’ll see the difference in every glass you pour—so schedule your free estimate today and enjoy water that looks as clean as it feels.
FAQs
Why is the water in my Harriman home discolored?
Brown, yellow, or reddish water usually means iron or manganese has been disturbed inside aging galvanized or cast-iron pipes. These older lines corrode internally, releasing rust particles that cloud the water as they travel to your tap. Water main repairs, hydrant flushing, or pressure changes can loosen additional sediment, making the problem more noticeable.
How do pipe upgrades eliminate discolored water?
When we replace corroded galvanized or cast-iron supply lines with modern copper or PEX, the internal buildup that creates rust particles is permanently removed from your plumbing system. New pipes have smooth, non-corroding walls, so iron and manganese can’t accumulate and break loose. As soon as the new lines are in place and flushed, you’ll see clear water and better flow.
What pipe materials do you recommend for Harriman homes?
We typically install Type L copper or ASTM-rated PEX-A. Both meet New York state plumbing code, resist freezing better than old metal pipes, and are rated for 50+ years of service. Copper is highly durable and naturally antimicrobial, while PEX is flexible, faster to install, and often more affordable. We’ll discuss the pros and cons on-site and help you choose the best option for your budget and water quality goals.
Will upgrading my pipes shut off water to the entire house?
During most repiping projects we stage the work so you retain limited water service at the end of each day. We isolate and replace sections one at a time, then restore temporary service before we leave. Complete shutdowns are usually limited to a few hours when we connect the new system to the meter and fixtures. We’ll give you a detailed schedule in advance so you can plan around any brief outages.
How much does a whole-house pipe upgrade cost in Harriman?
Pricing depends on home size, number of fixtures, pipe material, and accessibility. In Harriman, a typical 1,500-sq-ft home runs $4,500–$8,500 for PEX and $6,500–$11,000 for copper. We provide a written, fixed-price quote after a free inspection, and financing plans are available to spread the cost over 12–60 months.
How long will my new piping last and does it need maintenance?
Properly installed copper or PEX lines have a life expectancy of 50–75 years. Routine maintenance is minimal—just keep your home’s water pressure below 80 psi and install a whole-house sediment filter if your municipal line carries visible grit. We include a 25-year workmanship warranty and register any manufacturer warranties on your behalf for additional peace of mind.