When you turn on the faucet, you expect clear, clean water. But sometimes what comes out has a strange taste, a cloudy appearance, or even a smell you can’t quite place. If you live in Arvada, CO, you’re not alone in wondering what’s really in your water.
While Arvada’s water supply meets federal safety standards, that doesn’t always mean it’s perfect—or ideal for every household.
This guide breaks down what affects water quality in Arvada, common complaints, what to test for, and what plumbers Arvada CO can do to help.
Where Does Arvada’s Water Come From?
Arvada gets its water from surface sources, mainly Clear Creek. The water is treated and monitored before it gets to your home, but the quality can still vary based on things like:
- Seasonal runoff
- Aging infrastructure
- Household plumbing
That last part matters more than people realize.
Common Water Issues in Arvada Homes
1. Cloudy Water
Usually caused by trapped air or sediment. If it clears up after a few seconds, it’s likely harmless—but it’s worth checking.
2. Chlorine Taste or Smell
Arvada uses chlorine to disinfect water. It’s normal, but some people find it too strong.
If the taste or smell bothers you, carbon filters or under-sink filtration systems can help. A plumber in Arvada can install one in less than an hour.
3. Rusty or Brown Water
If your water looks discolored, it might be:
- Sediment from the city pipes during maintenance
- Rust from old pipes in your home
- A sign your water heater needs to be flushed
If only the hot water is discolored, that’s a clue it’s coming from the heater. Plumbers in Arvada CO handle water heater flushes and checks.
4. Hard Water
Many homes in Arvada deal with hard water—meaning high mineral content (mostly calcium and magnesium). It’s not unsafe, but it:
- Leaves spots on dishes
- Builds up in showerheads and faucets
- Shortens appliance lifespan
Do You Need a Water Softener?
That depends on how hard your water is. Arvada’s levels can fluctuate depending on your neighborhood.
You can test it yourself with a $10 kit from the store. If it’s over 7 grains per gallon, a softener might be worth it.
Plumbers in Arvada install water softeners all the time. There are whole-home units or smaller under-sink models for more targeted treatment.
What About Lead Pipes?
Arvada’s city infrastructure does not have widespread lead issues, but older homes might.
If your house was built before 1986, you might have lead solder or pipes somewhere. It’s worth testing, especially if you have children.
Some plumbers in Arvada can perform onsite lead testing or help you switch to safer piping.
Water Filters: Do They Work?
Yes—if you get the right kind.
For chlorine and taste: carbon filters work well. For heavy metals or bacteria: reverse osmosis systems are better.
A plumber can help you pick the right system based on your water tests and budget.
Should You Test Your Water?
If you notice a change in taste, color, or pressure, then yes. You can test for:
- pH level
- Chlorine
- Lead
- Hardness
- Bacteria
Home kits are a good start. But if you want detailed results, a lab test or consultation with an Arvada plumber is the better route.
Water Heaters and Quality
Sediment from hard water collects at the bottom of your heater. Over time, this lowers efficiency and can affect water color and smell.
Flushing your water heater annually helps. It’s a simple service most Arvada plumbers offer.
What to Ask a Plumber
If you’re concerned about your home’s water, ask:
- Can you check if I have lead pipes?
- What filtration system would work best here?
- Should I be using a softener?
- Can you flush my water heater?
They’ve likely seen the exact issue before and can guide you without overselling.
Final Word
Water in Arvada is safe—but not always ideal. With the right checks and maybe a few upgrades, you can get better-tasting, longer-lasting water for your home.
If you’re unsure, it costs very little to talk to a plumber in Arvada CO. They know the systems, the neighborhoods, and the most common issues. And they can help you get peace of mind every time you turn on the tap.