Cloudy water can result from either air or suspended solids, both of which can be detected by conducting two simple tests.

The first test, called the resting test, involves pouring a fresh glass of water and allowing it to sit (“rest”) for a minimum of ten minutes. Tiny air bubbles are frequently introduced into the water supply through pumps and other equipment used in the delivery process. If air is the cause of the cloudiness, the resting period allows the air to rise to the surface and escape, thus restoring your water to a clear state. These air bubbles are not a cause for concern and are harmless to your health and safety. However, they can indicate issues with your existing plumbing.

If the ten-minute resting test does not resolve the cloudiness problem or if water clarity improves but sediment settles to the bottom of the glass, then you likely have suspended solids or sediment in your water supply. Sediment problems can be determined through a visual inspection of the water-using appliances, faucets, and fixtures in your home or business. Yellow, orange, or black stains on toilets and sinks are all indicators of suspended solids in your water and can be a persistent and ongoing problem if present. Iron, dirt, silt, and manganese oxide are examples of debris that could be present in your water, resulting in cloudiness and staining.