Outside stains: usually an irrigation well
Groundwater can carry dissolved iron that is invisible until it is sprayed and oxidizes. The Florida Department of Health's fact sheet on odor and staining describes red stains from iron and iron bacteria in well water. If the stains line up with where your sprinkler heads hit, the sprinkler source is the first suspect.
Inside: brown or yellow water
Pompano Beach's water FAQ says brown or yellow water may be caused by work on the distribution system and water mains being flushed after repairs. That usually clears after running cold water for a few minutes. If it keeps happening, call your utility: Pompano Beach at 954-942-2202 north of Pine Avenue, Fort Lauderdale at 954-828-8000 south of it.
Persistent rust-colored water from one fixture or the hot side only can point to old galvanized pipes or a water heater.
What to test
- Iron level in the sprinkler water and the tap water separately.
- pH, which affects how iron behaves.
- Whether there is a chlorine residual, which shows the water is from the city.
- On a well used for drinking: bacteria and nitrate by a certified lab.
Treatment options
- Irrigation well: iron treatment on the well line before the sprinklers, sized to the iron level and pump flow.
- Drinking well: a well water system configured from the test.
- City water with old pipes: plumbing repair, not a filter.
Stains already on pavers and stucco need cleaning; treatment only stops new ones.
Pink film is not iron
Pompano Beach's water FAQ explains that a pink or dark gray film on bathroom surfaces is usually airborne bacteria (Serratia marcescens) that grow on surfaces kept moist, not a water quality problem. It shows up on showerheads, toilet bowls, drains and pet bowls. Regular cleaning with a chlorine-based cleaner is the recommended fix. It is easy to mistake for a water stain, so mention it when you book.
Free test
Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974. Jorge will test both waters if you have a well and city service.
https://www.floridahealth.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/well-water-facts-odor-staining.pdf
https://www.pompanobeachfl.gov/residents/utilities/water
https://www.lauderdalebythesea-fl.gov/168/Public-Works
https://www.floridahealth.gov/community-environmental-public-health/environmental-public-health/water-quality/drinking-water/private-wells/
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist