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A Guide to
Common Water Problems

accuracy

Water problems come in various forms. The obvious ones, like stained sinks and water that smells like chlorine or rotten eggs, are unpleasantly easy to detect. The guide below can help you spot some of the more common issues.

Unfortunately, many contaminants, such as nitrate, arsenic, and PFAS, can only be detected by a laboratory test.

Correctly diagnosing your water problems is the first step to correcting them. U.S. Water is home to a full-service testing laboratory, certified by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

At U.S. Water, we pride ourselves on being one of the few Wisconsin water treatment companieswith a state-certified lab. Our investment in this state-of-the art facilities ensures that our technicians can help you diagnose your water problems both quickly and with guaranteed accuracy.

Learn more about our lab.

Acidic Water

Acidic water can cause plumbing corrosion and lead to costly leaks. Check your water for pH balance.

Learn About Acidic Water

Bacteria

Whether city water or well water, your system can be susceptible to bacteria such as E. Coli and coliform.

Learn About Bacteria

Bad Odor

Sulphur, bleach or sewer smells are more than embarrassing. They may be affecting your family’s hydration.

Learn Why Your Water Smells Bad

Bad Taste

It’s hard to get your family to drink enough water, especially when it has a Sulphur, metallic or chlorine taste.

Learn Why Your Water May Taste Bad

Cloudy Water

young Asian man looking closely at cloudy glass of water

Air bubbles, sediment, and microbes can all cause cloudy-looking water. Simple tests can identify the issue.

Learn About the Cause of Cloudy Water

Hard Water

close-up of kitchen faucet covered in hard water scale

Hard water can cause scale build-up and costly damage to water heaters, dishwashers and washing machines.

Learn About the Effects of Hard Water

Sediment

Sediment can lead to cloudy, discolored water and clog plumbing fixtures, affecting water quality and flow.

Learn About the Effects of Sediment

Staining

iron stain in toilet bowl

Do you have yellow, rust, or black-stained sinks, toilets or tub?It may be iron, manganeseor tannins.

Learn About the Causes of Water Stains

Toxins & Metals

You can’t see or taste them, but harmful toxins may be present: chlorine, lead, nitrate, PFAS, arsenic and more.

Are There Unseen Toxins in Your Water?