Match the stain to the source
| Where you see it | Likely source |
|---|---|
| Stucco, sidewalks, pavers, fences in the sprinkler pattern | Irrigation well water with iron |
| Toilets, sinks and laundry on a private well | Iron, sometimes iron bacteria, in the well |
| Brief discoloration after repairs or hydrant work | Sediment stirred up in pipes |
| Hot side only | Water heater sediment or corrosion |
Irrigation wells
Shallow irrigation wells deliver untreated groundwater, and iron in that water looks clear coming out of the head, then oxidizes into orange stains as it dries. The Florida Department of Health notes iron bacteria can also cause red stains and slimy growth. Options include iron treatment on the irrigation line, adjusting heads away from walls and walks, and checking the irrigation schedule.
Lantana follows the South Florida Water Management District's year-round watering rules for all irrigation, whatever the source: no watering between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., even-numbered addresses on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday, odd-numbered addresses on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. Fewer, well-timed cycles also mean fewer chances to stain.
Pipes, mains and corrosion control
The town injects zinc orthophosphate into its treated water for corrosion control, and its water distribution crew maintains more than thirty miles of mains and repairs service lines from the main to the meter valve. Past the meter, the plumbing is the owner's. Older galvanized pipe in a house can shed rust; that calls for a plumber, not a filter. Discolored water after nearby work usually clears if you run the cold tap. If it does not, call Water Distribution at 561-540-5778.
Private drinking wells
On a drinking well, iron shows up as orange rings in toilets and stained laundry. Treatment is chosen from the test, because iron level, pH and hydrogen sulfide all change the answer. Living Water configures a well water system from the results. See well water treatment in Lantana.
Cleaning what is already stained
Treatment stops new stains; it does not remove old ones. Rust on stucco, pavers and pool decks usually needs a cleaner made for iron stains, and some surfaces need a professional. Test any product on a small spot first.
What Jorge tests
Iron at the kitchen tap and at an outdoor spigot or irrigation line, plus pH and hardness, which affect iron treatment. He will tell you if the stain is from irrigation and your drinking water is not involved. Call, text or WhatsApp Jorge at (305) 793-5974.
https://www.lantana.org/214/Annual-Water-Quality-Report
https://www.lantana.org/249/Year-Round-Watering-Restrictions
https://www.lantana.org/217/Water-Distribution
https://www.floridahealth.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/well-water-facts-odor-staining.pdf
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist