Black Specks or Flecks in Your Water? Top Causes & Solutions

Finding black specks in your water can be like discovering the villain in your favorite whodunit — unexpected, unsettling, and leaving you with lots of questions. Whether they’re showing up in your bathtub faucet, shower, or kitchen sink, those mysterious black flecks can feel downright alarming. Don’t worry, though — Dean’s Home Services is here to help crack the case. Read on to figure out what’s behind those pesky black specks in your water and how to make them disappear for good.

What Are the Black Spots in Your Water?

When there are black specks coming out of your bathtub faucet, shower, or other fixture, it’s not just a coincidence — it’s usually a sign that something in your plumbing or water system needs attention. Here are the most common culprits:

Deteriorating Parts

Your faucet aerators, washers, or other rubber components can break down over time, shedding tiny black particles into your water. It’s like your plumbing is flaking out — literally.

Corroded Water Heater

If you notice black specks primarily when using hot water, your water heater might be the problem. Over time, sediment or rust buildup can break loose, creating black flecks that show up when you least expect them.

Pipe Corrosion

Older homes with aging pipes are especially prone to this. Corroding pipes can release black flecks into your water, which might also be accompanied by discoloration or a metallic taste.

Recent Plumbing Work

Did you just have some plumbing repairs or upgrades? Sometimes, residue or debris from new installations or fixes can temporarily lead to black flecks in your water.

Each of these issues has a different root cause, but the good news is there’s a solution for every one of them!

How To Get Rid of Black Flecks in Water

Let’s tackle the problem head-on with some fixes tailored to your situation:

Replace Deteriorating Parts

Swap out old faucet washers or aerators for new ones. It’s a simple DIY task that can often solve the issue in no time. Of course, you can always call Dean’s for faucet repair. We’ll repair or replace your faucet in no time, sending those black specks packing!

Flush Your Water Heater

Sediment buildup in your water heater can be flushed out, but we recommend calling in a professional to handle it safely and effectively. Regular maintenance can also prevent this issue from rearing its ugly head again.

Inspect and Replace Corroding Pipes

If your pipes are aging and corroding, it’s time to call in the pros. Replacing old pipes isn’t just a fix — it’s an investment in your home’s water quality and safety.

Let It Run After Recent Plumbing Work

If plumbing repairs are the culprit, running the taps for a while might flush out any leftover debris. If the problem persists, though, a quick call to Dean’s can set things right.

Call Dean’s for Water Quality & Plumbing Services

Black specks in your water don’t have to be a mystery. At Dean’s Home Services, our outrageously professional team of plumbing experts is here to make sure that your water is as clean and safe as it should be. With over 100 combined years of experience, we’re pros at identifying and solving water quality issues quickly and efficiently throughout the Twin Cities. From same-day service to upfront pricing and unbeatable customer care, we make every interaction smooth, transparent, and stress-free.

Let Dean’s help you get back to enjoying water that’s clean, clear, and free of surprises. Contact us today!