I have a black and oily goop that periodically hangs from faucets. It is viscous enough that it hangs until it is wiped off. I noticed it now hanging from the water dispenser on the refrigerator. The refrigerator has a filter that requires changing every 4 months or so because it becomes completely plugged and prevents water flow to both the water dispenser as well as the ice maker. It is an older home built in the early 50's, though the landlord had replaced the water lines in the basement, though not throughout the entire house. The line to the refrigerator is 3 years old.

It sounds like you have bacterial growth in the pipes.

Are you on well water?
Al

Al

I am on city water, no well.

Ken,
If you still have the build up hanging there, I would call the water department and have them come and look at it and test the water. That sure sounds like bacteria to me. Do you know if your city water company uses chloramines, or chlorine for treatment? You can test your water with a simple pool test kit that would only cost about $5. That would tell you if you have chlorine/ chloramines in your water.

One other thought... do you know if there is a filter or softener in the line coming in to the house. It could be malfunctioning or need a cartridge change.

Keep us posted.
Al