The 8 Most Common Water Issues in East Metro Homes (And How to Fix Them)

The East Metro has some of the most challenging residential water in Minnesota. Between aging well systems, mineral-rich aquifers, and an unfortunate concentration of PFAS contamination from historic industrial activity, homeowners across Washington County, eastern Ramsey County, and parts of Dakota County deal with water problems most of the rest of the country never has to think about.

1. Hard Water and Scale Buildup

This is the most universal water issue in the Twin Cities metro. Almost every East Metro city draws from limestone aquifers, which produce water saturated with calcium and magnesium. Hardness levels of 18 to 26 grains per gallon are typical.

2. Iron Staining and Rust-Colored Water

Iron is the second most common East Metro water issue, especially in homes with private wells. It causes orange, red, or brown staining on toilets, tubs, sinks, and laundry. Discolored water and a metallic taste are common signs.

3. Sulfur or Rotten Egg Smell

The unmistakable rotten egg odor is hydrogen sulfide gas, often produced by sulfate-reducing bacteria in well systems. If the smell is only in hot water, it's often the water heater's anode rod.

4. PFAS Contamination

The East Metro has a documented PFAS contamination problem affecting a specific zone of Washington County. Detectable only through lab testing, these "forever chemicals" require specialized filtration like reverse osmosis or certified carbon block filters.