The interactive Well Water Problem Finder is in development. The launch guides below preserve the structure the tool will use: symptom, location, timing, test, then treatment category.
Black stains
Black or dark staining can be associated with manganese, sediment, corrosion products, or deteriorating fixture materials. Photograph the stain, note whether it wipes away, and test untreated water for manganese, iron, pH, and other locally relevant parameters before selecting treatment.
Hard-water scale
White mineral scale, soap that does not lather easily, and spotting can indicate hardness. USGS describes hardness primarily in terms of dissolved calcium and magnesium. A hardness result reported as mg/L as CaCO₃ or grains per gallon is the useful starting number.
Cloudy water
Fill a clear glass and watch it for several minutes. Cloudiness that clears from the bottom upward is often trapped air; material that settles or remains may need a sediment and water-quality investigation. Do not use appearance alone to decide that water is safe.