Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: flashlight, Location: NY, NY
Asked on: Monday, May 2, 2011 at 10:11 am EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 4:52 am EDT
Question: While doing monthly checklist for school we work for, their super showed us a problem in one of the science classrooms--the tap water had been running blue !Unfortunately (or fortunately) it was not doing it when we arrived, but he said it did this from time to time for about a week. A plumber had come in to see if there was any siphoning situation, found none, and then suggested he call an electrician to search for stray current.Does anyone have any experience with this ? There would have to be current, not just voltage, for electrolysis to occur, right ? From what I remember reading about this problem at marinas, it does not take a high current to cause it. I'm not sure how to go about testing for this, besides the most obvious things (clamp ammeter around water pipe...) and to make things more difficult, the copper plumbing is not easily accessible, even right under the sink.Would be grateful for any insight on this !
Understanding Blue Water Syndrome"Blue water syndrome" occurs when tap water turns blue due to copper corrosion. This can be caused by electrolysis, which involves the flow of electric current through water.
Causes of Electrolysis in Water Pipes
Electrolysis can occur in water pipes due to: Stray electric current from faulty electrical wiring or electrical equipment Galvanic corrosion between dissimilar metals (e.g., copper and steel) Cathodic protection systems (intended to prevent corrosion)Testing for Stray Current
To test for stray current, you can use an electrical multimeter:1. Set the multimeter to measure DC voltage.
2. Place one probe on a known grounded surface (e.g., water pipe or electrical panel).3. With the other probe, touch various metal surfaces (including water pipes) in the affected area.
4. If there is stray current, you will measure a voltage difference between the surfaces.
Testing for Copper Corrosion
To test for copper corrosion, you can use a simple water test kit:1. Fill a clear glass with tap water.
2. Add a few drops of the test solution.3. If copper ions are present, the water will turn blue or greenish.
Troubleshooting and Mitigation Identify the Source of Current
Locate any faulty electrical wiring or equipment that may be causing stray current.
Isolate Dissimilar Metals
If possible, isolate dissimilar metals in the plumbing system to prevent galvanic corrosion.
Install a Dielectric Break
Install a dielectric union or fitting between the copper pipe and any dissimilar metal connections.
Adjust Cathodic Protection System
If a cathodic protection system is installed, adjust it to ensure it is not overprotecting and causing copper corrosion.
Additional Tips Flush the Water Pipes
If the water turns blue, flush the pipes for several minutes to remove any dissolved copper.
Use a Water Filter
Install a water filter to remove copper ions from the water.
Seek Professional Help: If you cannot find or resolve the problem yourself, consider consulting a licensed electrician or plumber. Flag for review