Acid Mine Drainage Risks: Should Colorado Springs Homes Test Their Water?

Lunar Graphics
Aug 14
2 min read

Summer in Colorado Springs brings warm days and garden hoses, but it also heightens exposure to mine drainage in Colorado water—a real threat in areas near our old mining sites. Rain and melting snow can seep through exposed mine rock and push sulfuric acid and heavy metals into groundwater. If you're on well water—or even public water in older neighborhoods—it’s worth paying attention. At Rocky Mountain Plumbing Services, we offer lab-tested water analysis and tailored filtration solutions for exactly these concerns.

What Is Mine Drainage in Colorado Water?

Acid mine drainage (AMD) occurs when rain and meltwater pass through abandoned mines and exposed sulfide-rich rock, producing sulfuric acid. That acid dissolves metals like arsenic, lead, and cadmium, pushing them into nearby streams and aquifers.

In El Paso and Teller counties, many tributaries once served mining towns. Even though Colorado Springs’ municipal systems treat water, homeowners on wells in areas like Gleneagle or Cascade may find elevated metal levels—especially in summer when runoff peaks.

Two glasses, one with dirty water, one with clear water, surrounded by bowls of pebbles, sand, and dirt. Minimalist white background.

Signs Your Home Could Be Affected by AMD

Watch for these real-world clues:

Rusty or discolored water, especially after heavy rain.
Metallic taste or odd odors when you first turn on the tap.
Staining on fixtures or laundry—often a reddish or dark hue.
Reduced appliance lifespan, like water heaters or dishwashers.

If you’ve noticed any of those around Manitou Springs or Cascade neighborhoods, it’s not paranoia—it may be AMD-related.

Why RMPS Water Testing Matters

At RMPS, we don’t guess—we test. Here’s what you can expect:

We collect water samples and run lab-tested water analysis, checking for heavy metals, pH levels, and acidity.
You’ll get a clear report, with numbers you actually understand—no surprises.
Then, Shane custom-builds a filtration setup—whether it’s reverse osmosis, whole-house filters, or softeners—to precisely handle the contaminants found.

This level of detail gives peace of mind—and better tasting water.

How Water Treatment Systems Protect Your Home

Residents of Manitou Springs, Briargate, or Old Broadmoor often ask: how long do these systems last? Here's how RMPS solutions pay off:

Reduces metal exposure, improving both safety and taste.
Preserves plumbing and appliances—less corrosion means fewer repairs.
Prevents staining in sinks, toilets, and laundry.
Lasts for years—with regular maintenance, systems keep working, saving you money.

It’s not just about fixing today—it’s about foresight.

Protecting Your Family from Mine Drainage in Colorado Water

Mine drainage in Colorado water is a hidden risk—especially for well users near mining corridors. If your water shows any of the signs above, don’t wait. Schedule lab-tested water analysis with Rocky Mountain Plumbing Services today to get the right filtration system that fits your home and safeguards your family. Visit our website to book your consult—your water (and your peace of mind) are worth it.