Match the stain to the source
| Where | Likely source |
|---|---|
| Walls, pavers, fences where sprinklers hit | Iron in irrigation well water |
| Toilet tank, sinks, on a well | Iron or iron bacteria in the well |
| Rusty water from some fixtures only | Old galvanized pipes or fittings |
| Brief brown water after street work | Disturbed sediment in the mains |
Why irrigation water stains
The Florida Department of Health explains that red staining and slimy red growth can come from iron and iron bacteria in well water. Iron bacteria are not known to cause disease, but they cause stains and odors. Sprinklers spray the water onto surfaces where it oxidizes and dries.
What to test
- Iron in the sprinkler water and the tap water separately.
- pH and hardness, which shape the treatment.
- Chlorine residual at the tap, to confirm it is county water.
- On a drinking well: bacteria and nitrate by a certified lab.
Collect the sprinkler sample from the first water out of a head after the system starts, and a second after a few minutes, since iron can vary as the well runs.
Options
- Irrigation well: iron treatment on the well line, sized to iron level and pump flow.
- Drinking well: a well water system configured from the test.
- Old pipes: a plumber, not a filter.
- Mains work: run cold water; call Broward County WWS at 954-831-3250 if it persists.
Existing stains need cleaning; treatment stops new ones.
Before you buy a stain remover system
Ask how the system handles your measured iron level and flow, how often it needs service, and what happens if the pump runs longer than usual. A quote without a measured iron number is a guess.
Pool and driveway care
Some homeowners refill pools with well water or wash driveways with it. Iron in that water can tint pool water and leave orange marks on pavers and concrete. If you use a well for these jobs, test it first. County water can be used instead for small refills, and a treated well line protects surfaces long term.
Free test
Call, text or WhatsApp (305) 793-5974.
https://www.floridahealth.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/well-water-facts-odor-staining.pdf
https://www.floridahealth.gov/community-environmental-public-health/environmental-public-health/water-quality/drinking-water/private-wells/
https://www.broward.org/waterservices/WaterQualityReport
https://www.cityofwestpark.org/about-us/frequently-asked-questions
Updated 2026-10-17 · Living Waters · Jorge Canela, Water Quality Specialist