Why Your Faucet Water is Cloudy

Have you ever turned on your faucet and noticed milky-white water flowing out? This can be concerning, but there’s good news: in most cases, cloudy tap water doesn’t pose a health risk. Let’s explore the causes of this phenomenon and what you can do to fix it.

What Causes Cloudy Tap Water?

More often than not, cloudy tap water is simply caused by tiny air bubbles. This is especially common in municipal water systems that use pressurized systems to deliver water to homes. However, water cloudiness can have other causes as well. The reason will depend on whether the cloudiness affects all taps or just one faucet and whether it affects the hot water, cold water, or both.

Cloudy Water from All Taps

If the water from most or all of your fixtures is cloudy, it’s likely caused by air in the municipal water supply, which is completely harmless. To test this theory, fill a glass with water and let it sit for a few minutes. If the water turns clear from the bottom up, the culprit is air bubbles. If the water is still cloudy after several minutes, call your local water bureau to check if there’s maintenance being done or a possible leak in the system.

Cloudy Water from One Tap

If only one water faucet is delivering cloudy water, the issue is likely with that fixture’s aerator. To fix the issue:

• Remove the aerator from the faucet.
• Clean it with a 50-50 water/vinegar solution.
• Rinse it thoroughly and reinstall.

Why is My Hot Water Cloudy But Cold Water Clear?

If you have cloudy hot water but the cold water is clear, the issue might be with your water heater. To check this theory, run the hot water briefly, then fill a glass. If the water clears from the bottom up within a few minutes, it’s likely just air being released due to pressure. However, if it clears from the top down with particles settling at the bottom, your water heater may need maintenance. It might require flushing to remove sediment or the dip tube may need replacing.

Is Cloudy Water Safe to Drink?

Generally, if the cloudiness is due to air bubbles, the water is safe to drink. However, if the cloudiness persists after several minutes, or you notice sediment or a strange taste, it’s best to consult with a professional plumber.

How to Fix Cloudy Tap Water

Here are four ways to fix cloudy tap water:

1. Remove Air Bubbles

Allow the water to rest for several minutes to allow air bubbles to dissipate. Alternatively, you can run cold water through each of your faucets for a few minutes to eliminate any trapped air.

1. Clean the Aerator

If the cloudiness is only coming from one faucet, remove and clean the aerator with a solution of equal parts vinegar and water.

1. Schedule Water Heater Maintenance

If the cloudiness is coming from just the hot water tap, you may need to have your water heater flushed. Scheduling water heater maintenance is an easy way to remove sediment from your water and prolong the life of your water heater.

1. Request a Plumbing Inspection

If cloudiness persists, you may need to schedule an inspection with a professional plumber. They’ll be able to assess your plumbing system and determine if any piping issues are contributing to your cloudy water.

Get Help From a Professional Plumber

While cloudy water is often harmless, persistent issues should be addressed by a professional. If you need help clearing your tap water, reach out to our Portland plumbers at Roth Home. Our experienced team members are ready to help ensure your home’s water is clean, clear, and safe to drink.