Common Reasons There’s Foggy Water Coming From Your Taps
Have you ever poured yourself a glass of water only to see it come out looking cloudy, murky, or just… off? Foggy tap water might catch you off guard, especially when you expect clean, crystal-clear water from your faucet. While it’s not always a sign of danger, it’s still worth understanding why it’s happening — and whether it’s something you should be concerned about.
At American Water, we’re here to help you take a closer look at what causes cloudy tap water and how to restore your peace of mind.
Simple Causes For Cloudy Tap Water: When Not To Worry
The most common reason for foggy tap water is tiny air bubbles. If the cloudiness disappears after a few moments, there’s no need to worry. Temperature changes, water pressure fluctuations or recent plumbing work can trap air in your pipes, temporarily making your water look hazy. It’s harmless and will resolve on its own.
Causes For Concern: Why Is Your Tap Water Murky?
While cloudy tap water isn’t always dangerous, it’s worth paying attention to how long it lasts and whether other signs appear. If your water clears up after a few seconds, there’s no issue. But if cloudiness lingers — or if your water smells, tastes off or has a tint to it — testing it is a smart move.
Hard water, for example, can be more of an annoyance than a health hazard, but excessive minerals can wear down appliances and plumbing over time. If your home has constant buildup on faucets, stubborn water stains or dry skin despite using moisturizer, a water softener might be a worthwhile investment.
Sediment-related cloudiness, on the other hand, could mean larger particles are flowing through your pipes. While many are harmless, some contaminants — including lead or bacteria — aren’t visible to the naked eye. If you notice persistent foggy tap water, especially after a storm or plumbing repair, a water test can determine if there’s something more concerning in your supply.
How Does Cloudy Water Affect Your Home?
Hard water, in particular, can lead to mineral buildup inside pipes, reducing water flow and forcing appliances to work harder. Over time, this can shorten the lifespan of these systems and increase energy costs. Plus, laundry washed in hard water can feel stiff or look dull over time due to mineral deposits left behind in the fabric.
If tap water murkiness is caused by sediment or other contaminants, it may also contribute to clogged faucets and showerheads, requiring frequent cleaning or replacements. Addressing these issues can help preserve your plumbing, protect appliances and make daily chores easier.
How To Get Clear, Clean Water
If your water’s cloudiness is purely from air bubbles, waiting a few moments before drinking is all you need to do. But for persistent cloudiness, a filtration system or water softener can dramatically improve your home’s water quality.
For homes dealing with hard water, a Kinetico water softener eliminates excess minerals, preventing buildup in pipes and appliances while improving water clarity. If sediment or other particles are the issue, a whole-home water filtration system can remove unwanted impurities, providing cleaner, better-tasting water straight from the tap.
Say Goodbye To Cloudy Water
You shouldn’t have to wonder what’s in your drinking water. Whether your tap water is murky from hard water minerals, sediment or an unknown cause, American Water has solutions to help. A professional from our team can pinpoint the issue and recommend the best steps for your home’s needs.
Contact American Water today to learn more about improving your home’s water quality!
