If you notice cloudy or milky water coming from your water tap, don’t stress too much. Yes, this can be concerning, but there are several possible causes and potential treatments. Having a plumber perform water quality testing is one of the smartest moves you can make in this situation.
It Might Be Air Bubbles
Tiny air bubbles in the water could be the root cause of the milky or cloudy water. These bubbles often form when there is intense pressure in the pipes. Imagine filling a cup of water and seeing a cloudy swirl as the bubbles rise to the top. This is similar to what happens in your plumbing when air gets trapped in the water lines. If you leave the glass sitting, the bubbles typically rise and disappear. They are completely harmless to your health, just like air bubbles in the pipes. However, the stuck air does present certain hazards to the plumbing. If left unfixed, it can lead to water hammer, inconsistent pressure and intense strain on the pipe joints and fixtures.
It Could Be Sediment Buildup
Milky or cloudy water could also come from sediment buildup in the water lines or the water heater tank. This frequently happens in homes with outdated plumbing. The sediment will mix with the hot water supply, making it look cloudy. Flushing the tank annually is one of the best ways to prevent sediment buildup.
When It Could Be Something More Serious
If it’s not trapped air bubbles or sediment buildup, the cloudy water could be the result of something more serious, like contamination from nearby septic systems or industrial runoff. Homes that use well water are particularly vulnerable to bacterial or chemical intrusion because the water isn’t treated or filtered through a municipal system. Anytime you notice cloudy water that has a foul smell or taste, you should turn off the water supply immediately. You don’t want to use this water because it may have contaminants (e.g., E. coli, nitrates, pesticide residue) in it.
When Should You Call a Plumber?
You should call a plumber anytime you don’t know the cause of the milky or cloudy water. The plumber can perform various tests to find the exact source of the issue. Here at North Brothers Plumbing, we are experts at conducting water quality tests to identify contaminants, pressure problems and plumbing faults. We make the entire testing process extremely easy and convenient by coming directly to your home. The test results are vital to selecting the right treatment.
Treatment Options for Cloudy or Milky Water
After we figure out what’s causing the cloudy or milky water, we’ll walk you through the various treatment options. We’ll speak to you about your household needs and water usage habits to ensure we help you pick the right solution.
Whole House Water Filters
With whole-house water filters, every drop of water that enters your house goes through filters before it reaches your faucets. By doing so, they purge your home’s water supply of sediments, chlorine and other impurities.
RO Drinking Water System
Installed under the sink, reverse osmosis (RO) devices filter out contaminants like germs and dissolved salts. They’re perfect for making sure the water you drink is pure and clear.
Alkaline Water Filters
These filters do much more than purify your water supply; they also increase its pH level, which makes it more alkaline. In doing so, it helps reduce water cloudiness by neutralizing impurities and enhancing mineral balance.
UV Purification
This water treatment can eliminate harmful microorganisms and reduce organic particles that contribute to cloudiness. It also performs well in killing bacteria and viruses thanks to its UV light. Many people with well water sources use it to eliminate microbial contamination.
How Much Does Water Quality Testing Cost?
The cost of water testing depends on the type of test being done and the complexity of your water source. You should never look at it as a wasteful expense. Instead, it’s a worthwhile investment that can protect your health and help you choose the right filtration solution.
North Brothers Plumbing is here to answer any questions about your home’s water supply. We offer expert plumbing installations, repairs and maintenance, as well as water solutions, including, water filtration, water softening, RO drinking water systems, and much more! If you’re unsure what type of water solution you need, check out our extensive list of water symptom solutions, including solutions for cloudy water and hard water.
Call North Brothers Plumbing now to access reliable water testing in Monrovia, CA.
