Flakes from Hot and Cold Water Dispenser: What Are They? | Causes of Black Specks in Tap Water

What Are Water Dispensers?

Water dispensers are handy machines that give you clean, hot, or cold water whenever you need it. They're great for homes and offices because they're easy to use and provide safe drinking water.

Why Are Water Dispensers Useful?

1. They give you clean water that's safer than tap water in many places.
2. You can get hot or cold water quickly, which is perfect for making drinks or cooking.
3. They're easy to use and maintain.
4. Having a water dispenser can encourage people to drink more water, which is good for health. 

The Mystery of Flakes in Your Water

Sometimes, you might notice tiny flakes in your water from the dispenser. Don't worry! Let's talk about what these flakes are and why they appear.

Why You May Notice Black Specks in Your Water Dispenser

If you’ve noticed black flakes in your water from a hot and cold water dispenser, it could be due to issues in your water supply, supply hoses, or water lines. These specks may come from rubber gaskets, rubber washers, or washers gaskets deteriorating over time. In some cases, a corroded water heater, corroding pipes, or pipe corrosion can also be responsible for contaminants affecting your home’s water quality.

To resolve this plumbing issue, conducting a water test and consulting a professional plumber can help identify the cause and ensure safe drinking water. Regular maintenance of your dispenser and plumbing system can prevent further contamination.

Types of Flakes

1. Brown flakes: Usually from dirty filters or rusty pipes.
2. White flakes: Often caused by minerals in hard water.
3. Black flakes: These could be mold and should be dealt with quickly.

Why Do Flakes Appear?

1. Dirty Filters: Filters can get clogged over time.
2. Hard Water: Some areas have water with lots of minerals.
3. Mold Growth: Dark, damp places in the dispenser can grow mold.
4. Black specks in tap water can sometimes appear due to deteriorating rubber seals in plumbing or even from sediment buildup, which can be concerning if noticed in your drinking or shower water.

Keeping Your Water Dispenser Clean

To avoid flakes and keep your water tasting great, you need to clean your dispenser regularly. Here's how:

1. Wipe the outside daily with a clean, damp cloth.
2. Clean the drip tray and spouts often.
3. Do a deep clean every few months.
4. Read the manual for specific cleaning instructions for your model.