Manganese in Your Water: What to Know

Manganese is something that can be found naturally in rocks and soil. This mineral is also sometimes found in your drinking water and while it won’t hurt you, it can be somewhat annoying.

According to the EPA, manganese is known as a secondary contaminant. This means that the presence of manganese is usually accompanied by bad tastes, odor, and color and could possibly stain. They tend to have some undesired effects such as foul plumbing and making it difficult to lather soap.

In tap water, manganese levels become noticeable at concentrations of 0.05 mg or higher. Below is some valuable information to know about manganese in your drinking water.

How do I Identify Manganese in my Water?

Generally, if there is manganese in your water, there is a discoloration so that the water looks reddish-brown or even black. This can cause staining to your sink, tub, faucet and even clothing. Other signs include a strange taste and odors coming from the water.

How to Treat Manganese

A common solution in treating manganese is through the use of a water softener, which could have a sediment filter in the line. When deciding the next step, make sure to take a sample to be sure of the chemical makeup.

Removing Manganese Stains

Here is a list of products that would well to remove stains left behind by manganese.

  • Acid Cleaners- White Vinegar, Lemon Juice, Oxalic Acid, Phosphoric Acid, and Hydrochloric and Sulfuric Acid.
  • Chlorine Bleach
  • Specialty Cleaners- Lime Away
  • All-Purpose Cleaners-409

In order to assist in the process, call Northeast Water Wells if you think you may have a manganese problem!