Orange & Rust Stains From Water in Lake Park

Three common causes

• Irrigation wells: untreated groundwater with iron, sprayed onto everything the sprinklers reach.
• Private drinking wells: iron and iron bacteria can stain sinks, toilets and laundry. The Florida Department of Health notes iron bacteria cause stains, tastes and odors.
• Old pipes: corroding galvanized or iron plumbing can release rust, especially after water sits.

Pipe work and short-term discoloration

Seacoast's capital program includes neighborhood piping replacement in Lake Park, and the Town documented a Seacoast project on US 1 between Silver Beach Road and the Earman River. Main work, flushing and hydrant use can stir up sediment and cause brief discoloration. That usually clears by running the cold tap; a stain that keeps coming back from your indoor taps deserves a test.

Testing

Jorge tests iron, pH and hardness on your indoor tap and, if you have one, the irrigation or well water. Iron level and pH decide which treatment works. If you rely on a well for drinking, add a certified lab test for bacteria; the DOH Environmental Laboratory in West Palm Beach handles that.

Treatment options

• Irrigation: iron treatment placed on the irrigation line, plus adjusting spray patterns away from walls.
• Drinking well: a well water system configured from the test, often oxidation and filtration, sometimes with a softener.
• Old pipes: a plumber's repair, not a filter.

Pool decks, pavers and boats

Around the harbor and lagoon-front homes, stains often show up on pavers, pool decks and stucco. If a boat or dock is rinsed with irrigation water, the same iron can mark fiberglass and fittings. Using city water for rinsing and keeping irrigation spray off hard surfaces both help while you decide on treatment. A water test of the irrigation source tells you how much iron you are dealing with and whether a treatment system on that line is practical.

Who to call about discolored tap water

If your indoor water turns brown or orange suddenly, call Seacoast Customer Service at 561-627-2920 before buying anything. Utility work or a main break can explain it, and they can tell you whether crews are working nearby.

Existing stains

Treatment prevents new stains; existing ones usually need a cleaner made for rust on that surface. Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974 to book a test. See also well water in Lake Park.

Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist