Does cloudy well water fill your glass when you turn the tap to grab a drink?
Cloudiness is a common problem experienced by many residential and commercial well owners throughout Utah and Wyoming. Finding the exact cause of the issue requires a professional inspection by a qualified and experienced well contractor.
Meanwhile, you may be able to preliminarily troubleshoot the problem with a little insight.
Air Bubbles May Cause Cloudy Well Water
If you see cloudiness when you fill your glass, but it clears up after a few seconds, air bubbles may be the culprit – and they’re completely harmless.
So, what causes the air bubbles?
When the temperature outside dips really low, the water in your system becomes quite cold. Cold water holds air, which can make it look cloudy when it comes from the tap. After it warms up, the air bubbles quickly dissipate and the liquid clears.
Pressure may also play a part in your bubble clouds. The water in your pipes is pressurized to help it travel all the way to the tap, and this pressure makes it hold air. Once you turn on the faucet, the air comes out as bubbles – similar to the carbonation in soft drinks. After the liquid sits for a bit, the air bubbles naturally disappear.
Well Residue Can Create Cloudiness
If the cloudiness in your well water disappears after a moment or two, you might think harmless air bubbles are to blame. But, you might be wrong.
Cloudy water can also indicate the presence of silt, dirt or rust residue in your system. Particles in a well system are pumped right along with the water, and the cloudiness could be the result of impurities. Once in your glass, the impurities sink to the bottom and the liquid clears up.
In that case, your filtration system may be experiencing a problem. Replacing the filter or scheduling professional well rehabilitation may be necessary to resolve the issue.
Excess Surface Water Can Cause a Cloudy Well
Did the cloudiness suddenly appear after a large rainfall? This could be a sign that surface water is leaking into your well. This is a potentially dangerous problem, as it may contain harmful chemicals, bacteria or other contaminants.
How does surface water get inside?
When it storms, the rain can pool up on top of your well. If the wellhead or casing (or both) aren’t properly sealed, this surface water can begin to seep through.
If your well water is cloudy, it may be perfectly safe to drink – but maybe not. The only way to know for sure – and to keep your family safe and healthy – is to have it professionally tested.
The professional team at Mike Zimmerman Well Service specializes in providing well rehabilitation, repair, drilling and other related services to residential and commercial customers throughout Utah and Wyoming. To identify and resolve the problem causing your cloudy well water, contact us today.
