Discolored Tap Water
Discolored Tap Water | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Ooltewah
Have rusty, yellow, or cloudy water been spoiling your morning coffee in Ooltewah? Discoloration is often the first warning sign that aging galvanized or corroded supply lines are leaching minerals into your tap, and ignoring it can lead to low pressure, leaks, or even health concerns. HEP’s licensed plumbers trace the problem to its source, whether that’s a single failing section or an entire network of outdated pipes, and give you clear, upfront options before a single wrench turns.
Our proven pipe upgrades replace troublesome metal lines with modern PEX or copper, flush contaminants from the system, and restore crystal-clear water—usually in a single day. From meticulous clean-up to lifetime-backed workmanship, we treat your home like our own, so the only reminder of our visit is the fresh, great-tasting water flowing from every faucet. Call HEP today and say goodbye to discolored tap water for good.
FAQs
What usually causes discolored tap water in Ooltewah homes?
In most cases the brown, yellow, or reddish tint you see is rust or sediment that has broken loose from aging galvanized steel or cast-iron supply lines. The extremely hard water common to Hamilton County accelerates internal corrosion, so pipes installed 30–50 years ago now flake and leach iron oxides into the water stream. While municipal mains are periodically flushed, any rust sitting inside your private service line or interior plumbing will continue to discolor water until the problem pipes are replaced.
How can upgrading my plumbing pipes eliminate discolored water?
Pipe upgrades remove the source of the rust. During a re-pipe, we bypass or remove all corroded galvanized or cast-iron lines and install modern PEX‐A or type-L copper. These non-corrosive materials keep minerals from attaching to the pipe walls, so the water stays clear. Because the entire water pathway is renewed—from the main shut-off to individual fixtures—there is nowhere for sediment to accumulate, and you will see visibly cleaner water as soon as the new system is pressurized and flushed.
What pipe materials do you recommend for replacements in the Ooltewah area?
We offer two code-approved options. (1) PEX-A cross-linked polyethylene is flexible, freeze-resistant, and requires fewer fittings, making it budget-friendly and fast to install. (2) Type-L copper is highly durable, has a 50-plus year life expectancy, and is preferred when a home’s value or HOA covenants call for metallic piping. Both materials are certified lead-free and safe for drinking water; the choice usually depends on customer preference, budget, and any insurance or resale considerations.
Will a whole-house re-pipe disrupt my family’s routine?
Our team stages work to keep essential fixtures (one toilet and one sink) operational whenever possible. We use drywall access panels and attic crawls to snake new lines rather than demolishing large sections of wall. Most single-story Ooltewah homes are fully re-piped in 1–2 days; two-story houses may take 3–4. Water is typically shut off only during work hours, so you will have service each evening. We protect floors with drop cloths, haul away debris daily, and complete final drywall patches and texture so you experience minimal inconvenience.
How much does it cost to re-pipe a home in Ooltewah, and do you offer financing?
Prices vary by square footage, number of bathrooms, and pipe material. For reference, a 2-bath, 1,800-sq-ft ranch using PEX averages $4,500–$6,000, while the same home in copper runs $7,500–$9,500. Multi-story or larger homes run proportionally higher. We provide free on-site estimates and offer 0% interest financing for up to 18 months through our local credit-union partner. All work includes required permits, inspections, and a 25-year transferable workmanship warranty.
How soon will I notice better water quality after the upgrade, and will I still need a filter?
Clarity usually improves immediately after we flush the new system for 10–15 minutes. Any remaining discoloration dissipates within the first 24 hours of normal use. Because new pipes stop rust intrusion, most homeowners find that a basic under-sink carbon filter is sufficient for taste and odor; whole-house filters or softeners are optional and can be added to address hard-water scaling or chlorine taste. We can test your water post-installation and make recommendations based on actual results.