Cloudy tap water
Cloudy water can be harmless air bubbles or a sign of sediment, iron, or bacteria risk. A certified lab tells you which — a filter ad cannot.
Let the cloud settle. If it clears from the bottom up, it is often dissolved air. If it stays cloudy or leaves grit, test before you buy treatment.
What to test
- Bacteria (coliform) if the cloud appeared after plumbing work, flooding, or a well outage.
- Iron / manganese / turbidity if reddish-brown sediment or staining is present.
Official lab contacts: EPA certified laboratory contacts. County health / Extension may screen wells cheap or free.