Cloudy or milky tap water can sometimes be a cause for concern in residential settings, although it is typically not a serious matter. It’s important to note that water quality in the US is generally of high standard thanks to rigorous testing procedures that ensure its safety. However, it is worth mentioning that certain neighborhoods or even specific households may occasionally experience isolated issues that can affect water quality.
In this blog, we will discuss two of the most common causes of cloudy tap water, as well as what you can do to correct it.
What Causes Cloudy Tap Water?
There are several possible causes of cloudy tap water. Two of the most common of these causes include:
Trapped Air In The Pipes
A common cause of cloudy water is typically due to the presence of aerated water. This can occur as a result of changes in water supply network pressure, such as burst pipes or ongoing repair work in the locality. In such instances, air may become trapped in the water flowing through the pipes, and eventually expelled through the taps.
If the cloudiness in water is caused by trapped air, allow it a minute to settle and naturally clear in your glass. During this process, you will notice that the cloudiness dissipates from the bottom upwards as the tiny air bubbles rise to the surface. In the event that the water from a hot water tap appears cloudy, it may indicate an issue with your boiler. We recommend reaching out to a qualified plumber as soon as possible for assistance.
For the purpose of identifying whether the problem lies within your household pipework or the wider supply network, it is advisable to check if your neighbors are experiencing similar issues. If the problem remains isolated to your property, it would be prudent to contact a plumber or the local council to ascertain if the problem lies within your household’s pipework.
It is important to note that aeration is generally not a health concern and the water is perfectly safe to consume. Should you find the cloudiness unsightly, you can simply run the tap for a few seconds before filling your glass to help clear any trapped air.
In the event that the issue persists for an extended duration, we recommend reaching out to your local water supplier to inquire about any ongoing repair work that may be affecting your area.
Hard Water
If you happen to reside in an area with hard water, it is possible that you may encounter the inconvenience of limescale build-up in your pipes or appliances. This occurrence can be attributed to the agitation of hard water through heating, resulting in the formation of chalky white deposits. Although primarily noticed after boiling water in a kettle, these deposits can also manifest within taps and pipework connected to boilers or water heaters.
It is worth mentioning that hard water does not pose any health risks when consumed. However, the discoloration it causes in water-based drinks may be unappealing, particularly if chalky deposits accumulate on taps and other appliances.
In the case of hard water which stems from a high mineral content, there are a variety of approaches you can employ to diminish the mineral concentration responsible for hard water. These methods include the use of a water softening system.
Kinetico Can Help Solve This Problem
While cloudy tap water can be unsettling, it’s usually not a cause for immediate alarm. However, if you’re experiencing persistent issues, it’s a good idea to reach out to the team of skilled professionals at Kinetico. We can install a water softener in your home to make sure you never have to worry about cloudy water again. Whether you live in Bountiful, Ogden, Park City, Provo, or Salt Lake City, we’re here for you. Don’t let cloudy water ruin your peace of mind. Reach out to us today, and let’s work together to ensure you have access to clear, clean, and safe water. Visit our website or call us now to learn more about our products and services tailored to meet your unique water needs.