CITY OF BRAZIL WATER DEPARTMENT

WHY HAS MY TAP WATER BEEN CLOUDY THIS WINTER?

(Based in information from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority)

This condition is caused by air bubbles in the water. It's harmless!

Here is what happens:

Cold water can hold more air than warm can. As it travels to your tap from the water source (which is very cold during the winter), it warms up.

As it warms up the air comes out of the water solution. Additionally, the water is under pressure. Again, the pressurized water can hold more air

than water that isn't pressurized. When the water comes out of the tap the water is no longer pressurized and air comes out of the water solution as bubbles.

All you need to do is let the water sit in an open container until the bubbles disappear.

    ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

(Based on Information from the Las Vegas Water District)

How does the air get into the water?

Through various ways, including: pumping processes, pipe maintenance, or bringing cold groundwater to the surface.

Because of water pressure, the air will remain trapped in the water until the pressure is released. As when you open a faucet.

How can I be sure of the cloudiness is because of trapped air?

Just fill a glass with water and set it on a hard flat surface. Observe the water for a minute or so. As the air dissipates, the water should clear up.

The trapped air will not affect the water quality!

The cloudy appearance will not affect water quality. Water samples are routinely tested to ensure that the water meets state and federal guidelines.