Cloudy water normally contains small suspended particles that give the water a hazy appearance. Unlike air bubbles, the cloudiness often does not disappear when the water is left standing in a glass. Turbidity may be caused by soil particles, organic matter, precipitated iron or manganese, microorganisms or other contaminants in the source water.
Common Causes
- Soil, Sand or Clay
- Humic Substances and Organic Matter
- Precipitated Iron or Manganese
- Microbiological Growth
- Surface Water Influence or Poorly Protected Well
- Disturbances in Pipes or Well Systems
Common Symptoms
- Hazy or Greyish Water
- Visible Particles
- Deposits in Filters
- Changes in Taste or Odour
- Discolouration
Common Treatment Methods
- Water Analysis
- Filtration
- Sand Filtration
- Fine Filtration
- Ozone
- UV Disinfection
Example Treatment Trains
Lake Water
↓
Screen Filter
↓
Sand Filter
↓
UV Disinfection
↓
Drinking Water
Well Water
↓
Particle Filter
↓
Fine Filter
↓
UV Disinfection
↓
Drinking Water
Cloudy water may be caused by anything from harmless particles to microbiological problems or surface water intrusion. If cloudiness is recurring or appears suddenly, a water analysis and consultation with a qualified water treatment specialist are recommended before selecting a treatment solution.