Iron ochre is a rust-colored ooze that thrives in sandy soil, can cause pipes, basement systems and sump pumps to clog and compromise the integrity of these systems. This bright orange, slimy material is a bacteria that feeds off iron and can damage pipes, plumbing, sump pumps and basement waterproofing systems. If you are concerned about iron ochre in your water, try these simple tests.
Visual Test for Iron Ochre
First thing in the morning, once your water has had a chance to settle, fill a glass with tap water. Allow the water to sit undisturbed for 24 hours. This will allow discoloration to occur and sediments to settle to the bottom of the glass. Once it has settled, observe the glass for any accumulated sediment. If you observe reddish sediment with a fluffy, three-dimensional appearance, then it is likely that your home has a presence of iron ochre.
Iron Ochre Stains
Iron Ochre will stain any surface it touches including concrete, tubs, sinks and clothing and can appear as a slimy red or orange build up around pipes and sump pumps or on concrete walls or floors. Iron Ochre stains are extremely difficult to remove and can leave an oil-like sheen on your home and belongings.
Iron Ochre Odor
If Iron Ochre is present in your drinking water, this may cause your water to taste strange. Iron ochre has a foul smell that is frequently described as rotten vegetables or sewage. Iron bacteria in water also increases the chance of a sulfur infestation, which produces a stench similar to rotten eggs.
Testing your water for iron ochre
For a more concrete answer about iron ochre in your home, samples of your water can be taken to a lab and tested which can confirm or deny the presence of iron ochre in your home and can help determine if steps need to be taken to resolve the iron ochre infestation.
Preventing Iron Ochre in Your Basement
Our IronX Piping (Iron Ochre System) perimeter basement drainage channel is ideal for managing iron ochre. The unique drainage piping design resists clogs, and the 3 top chambers allow the system to be easily flushed of iron ochre for easy maintenance. Our IronX drainage system is custom designed to protect your home and keep your basement dry and your basement system free flowing.
For more information about how IronX Piping can prevent iron ochre from clogging basement systems give us a call today!