Color in Water

Color in water is almost always due to organic material which is usually extracted from decaying vegetation. Color is common in surface water supplies, while it is virtually non-existent in spring water and deep wells. Color in water may also be the result of natural metallic ions (iron and manganese). A yellow water tint indicates that humic acids are present, referred to as "tannins". A reddish water color would indicate the presence of precipitated iron. Stains on bathroom fixtures and on laundry are often associated with color also. Reddish-brown water color is ferric hydroxide (iron) will precipitate when the water is exposed to air. Dark brown water and black water stains are created by manganese. Excess copper can create blue stains.   
 
Color in Water Treatment - Color in water treatment can be accomplished by using a chemical feed, retention and filtration. Activated carbon filters will work most effectively to remove color in water in general. Anion scavenger resin will remove tannins, but must be preceded by a water softener or mixed with fine mesh softener resin. See the headings Iron, Manganese, and Copper for information their removal or reduction.