Maybe you’ve noticed that your tap water has been looking a little cloudy lately. Or, perhaps you just moved into a new home and turned on the faucet for the first time to find that the water wasn’t quite as clear as you expected.

Either way, you’re probably wondering why your tap water is cloudy and what, if anything, you can do about it.

Before we get into that, it’s vital to note that cloudy water is usually perfectly safe to drink. In most cases, the cloudiness is caused by air bubbles or minerals in the water and is not harmful.

With that said, let’s take a closer look at some of the possible reasons why your tap water might be cloudy.

Air bubbles
One typical cause of cloudy water is air bubbles. When water is treated at a water treatment plant, it is aerated to remove impurities. This process can sometimes leave behind tiny air bubbles, making the water look cloudy.
Pipe sediments
Another possible reason for cloudy water is sediment in the pipes. Sediment can build up in pipes over time, especially if the water in your area is high in minerals. When this sediment is disturbed, it can cause the water to become cloudy.
Mineral accumulation
If you have a well, mineral deposits can also be a problem. Minerals such as calcium and magnesium can sometimes accumulate in well water, making it appear cloudy. In most cases, these minerals are not harmful and will not affect the taste or safety of the water.
Water treatment plant problem
Finally, sometimes cloudy water can be caused by a problem with the water treatment plant itself. If the plant is not operating correctly, it can cause the water to become cloudy, but it is usually not a crucial problem and can be fixed relatively easily.

So, now that you know some of the possible reasons tap water might be cloudy, what can you do about it?

If you’re concerned about the cloudiness, you can always have your water tested by a professional. However, in most cases, cloudy water is perfectly safe to drink and is not worth worrying about.

Still not convinced?