Is cloudy water safe to drink?

Drinking a refreshing cold glass of water is a great feeling. Cloudy tap water, sometimes referred to as milky or white water is likely due to trapped air or a build-up of dissolved particles in the water pipes. It is important to note the cloudy water from the tap is completely harmless.

Flushing hydrants is an important preventive maintenance activity that verifies proper operation of the hydrant and ensures adequate water flow will be available in the event of a fire emergency. Flushing also removes sediment and deposits that naturally accumulate in water pipes.

Conducting fire flow tests and flushing hydrants are a routine component of a good water distribution maintenance program. When a fire hydrant is opened, the velocity of the flowing water disturbs sediment at the bottom of the pipes and the water turns cloudy. To correct this, open multiple faucets in your home until the water becomes clear.

Show All Answers

1. How do I start or end my water service?
2. Does the Town plan on issuing mandatory watering restrictions this year?
3. What are the current water restrictions?
4. How do I report a pothole?
5. Who do I contact about broken concrete?
6. How do I rent a hydrant meter?
7. How do I get on the Town's vendor list?
8. What is the truck doing to sewer pipelines?
9. Why is my water cloudy?
10. Is cloudy water safe to drink?
11. Are storm inlets inspected and cleaned?
12. Why does the Town use video inspections?
13. How does the Town maintain water and sewer pipelines?