Why does my water sometimes look dirty or cloudy?
Cloudy Water - Water is cloudy when air gets in and makes tiny bubbles. The bubbles are harmless and will disappear if you let the water sit in a glass for a few minutes.

Dirty Water - Usually when water looks dirty, it’s because of changes in the way the water delivery system is being operated. When the direction that water flows in the pipe is changed-for maintenance work on a water main, when a fire hydrant is broken in a car accident, or there is a break in a water main- materials at the bottom of the pipes get stirred up. Usually, the water looks dirty for a short time and you shouldn’t drink it until it looks clear. One way to speed the dirty water out of your own pipes is to run all of your faucets for a few minutes. If the water is still not clean, then do the same thing again every half hour or so. The problem should go away within two to four hours. If it doesn’t, call 323-587-5969.

Show All Answers

1. Why does my water sometimes look dirty or cloudy?
2. Why does my water sometimes taste or smell funny?
3. Why does my water leave spots on my glasses, coffeepot, and showerhead?
4. If my water looks, tastes, or smells funny, is it safe to drink?
5. Can pregnant women drink tap water?
6. How can I find out what’s in my water?