Water has a metallic flavor. If you have dark brown or black stains on fixtures, laundry, or in water, it is probably from manganese, another common naturally occurring mineral contaminant in Kansas well water. Follow the same principles described for mineral iron to test and treat the problem. Test for mineral iron and iron bacteria to see if one or both are present. A sample to test for mineral iron may be drawn from any tap that delivers untreated water.
Treatment is the solution, depending on the type and amount of mineral iron present.
However, softeners containing zeolite media may be able to handle more iron. Be sure to compare the maximum iron levels recommended by the softener manufacturer with the amount of iron in your water before you purchase a unit. Oxidizing filters contain a special media or sand which must be treated occasionally with potassium permanganate to maintain iron removal capability. An alternate water supply, if available, is often cheaper than treatment. A reddish-brown, slimy coating in plumbing system, especially below the water line in the toilet tank.