Why Your Water is Cloudy

You might notice that the water flowing out of your taps is cloudy. This can be alarming, especially if you don’t know what is causing it. However, with our handy list of reasons below you can try to work out why your water is cloudy.

Dirt or tiny particles

The cloudiness of your water may be due to dirt or tiny particles being present in your water supply. These tiny particles can be sand or dust which cause a cloudy appearance if they are suspended in the water. To solve this problem, install a sediment filter to see if it will clear up the water. If it doesn’t, make sure you get in touch with a professional plumber to help you.

Sulphur 

Another reason for cloudy water may be due to hydrogen sulphide being present, which is accompanied by a rotten egg smell. This sulphur bacteria is only present if there is rotten organic matter and little oxygen in any plumbing area. Hydrogen sulphide gas is then produced by the bacteria and gets trapped within your water system. Although sulphur is not detrimental to your health, it is recommended that your water is tested to ensure that it’s safe.

To solve this problem, you first have to determine the source of the bacteria. The cause may be due to the chemicals in your water heater. If this is the case, make sure that you have your water heater serviced by a plumber.

If the water heater isn’t the cause of the cloudy water, try providing your water source with enough ventilation. To ensure that sulphur bacteria is removed, consider installing a filtration system for your home. Our article on the Different Types of Water Filters focuses on the various filters available.

Bubbles

A common reason for cloudy water are bubbles, which is most likely to happen during winter. The change in temperature and pressure will create air bubbles in your water. However, this is harmless and will disappear if the water sits in an open container for a long period of time.

Hard water 

Hard water may be the cause of the cloudiness if you live in a hard water area. To check if you do, Aqua Cure have a section where you can enter your postcode to determine whether you live in a hard water area. Hard water areas will usually cause a build-up of limescale in your pipework and appliances, which may turn your water cloudy. Although drinking cloudy water is said to be harmless, it may be less appealing to drink since there might be chalky deposits. The source of hard water is due to a large number of certain minerals being present, but they can be removed by installing water filters that have polyphosphate scale inhibitors (sequestration filters), water softeners or calcium treatment systems.

These are the reasons why your water might be cloudy. For problems that continue to persist, it’s best to contact a professional. Take a look at our list of plumbing services here.