There are many causes of cloudy water, including:
- Air bubbles
This is the most common cause of cloudy water. Air bubbles can be trapped in the water supply system during treatment or transport. Let the water sit for a few minutes. This will give the air bubbles time to rise to the top and escape. - Sediment
Sediment is made up of tiny particles of dirt, sand, or clay. It can contain a variety of other contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites, as well as heavy metals and other harmful substances. Sediment enters the water supply system from a variety of sources, including soil erosion, construction, and industrial activity. Sediment can make water cloudy and can also have a negative impact on its taste and smell. - Algae.
Algae is a type of plant that can grow in water. It can make water cloudy and can also produce toxins that can be harmful to human health. - Bacteria.
Bacteria can also make water cloudy. Some types of bacteria can cause waterborne illnesses.
Dangers of Sediment in Drinking Water
The dangers of sediment in drinking water depend on the type of sediment. Some types of sediment, such as clay and silt, while they may be unpleasant to drink, are harmless. Other types of sediment, such as lead, arsenic, algae and bacteria, can be harmful to your health.
One study conducted in the United States found that households using well water that had high levels of sediment were more likely to experience gastrointestinal illness than households using well water with low levels of sediment. The study, published in the journal Epidemiology, surveyed households in rural areas of Iowa and found that those using well water with high levels of sediment were 2.5 times more likely to experience diarrhea and 1.5 times more likely to experience stomach cramps or nausea.
Another study, conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), found that households using well water with high levels of sediment were also more likely to experience skin irritation and respiratory problems. The study surveyed households in rural areas of Colorado and found that those using well water with high levels of sediment were more likely to experience skin irritation, coughs, and chest tightness.
Have your water tested regularly
If you are concerned about the quality of your water, you should have it tested regularly. This will help you to identify any problems and take steps to correct them.
Health Benefits of Removing Sediment From Drinking Water
These studies and others suggest that removing sediment from well water can have important health benefits, particularly for people living in rural areas who rely on well water for their drinking and bathing needs.
While a variety of methods can be used to remove sediment from well water, such as filtration and sedimentation, consulting with Pure Water Solutions can help ensure that the most appropriate method is chosen for your specific needs. Sediment removal can be achieved through our maintenance-free, state-of-the-art, automatic backwashing digital filter which can remove a wide range of contaminants will filtering the water down to 3 microns.
Concerned about sediment in your drinking water?
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