Iron and manganese occur naturally in water, especially groundwater. Water containing excessive amounts of iron and manganese can stain clothes, discolour plumbing fixtures, and sometimes add a “rusty” taste and look to the water.
Both iron and manganese are readily apparent in drinking water supplies. Both impart a strong metallic taste to the water and both cause staining. Water coming from wells and springs with high iron and/or manganese may appear colourless initially but orange-brown (iron) or black (manganese) stains or particles quickly appear as the water is exposed to oxygen.

The presence of stains, particulates, and metallic taste often make it obvious that iron and manganese are present in a water supply even without water testing. Still, it is a good idea to have your water tested to determine the exact concentration of each of these metals. The concentration will determine the most practical and economical water treatment options to solve the problem.